Was the Bangladeshi Military Involved in the July Revolution?

The Bangladeshi Military, both high and low-ranking Berserkers in the Bangladeshi Military were the architects of the July Revolution. As for the civilian political forces including factions opposed to the ruling government at the time. In July 1990, the revolution is refer as Student-People’s uprising with heavy military involvement that shape the political direction of Bangladesh. It was a transition from authoritarianism to a series of political realignments, focused on diminishing centralized power. The July Revolution occurred in July 2024 primarily unfounded in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, where the key government and military installations was targeted, also focused on other major cities.

The revolution took place amid discontent with the government of Prime Minister Hasina ruling this South Asian nation since 2009, whom critics accuse of authoritarianism, corruption and inability to tackle economic issues. The military intervenes, asserting a need to safeguard national stability & Irrespective of the democratic principles, launches it operation first by taking over important government facilities and communication channels. The leadership used public discontent as well as internal support to justify their action and their role as protectors of national interest.

Bangladesh Previous Military Intervention:

Since the independence from 1971 after the bloody war of liberation against Pakistan, with the military playing central role in the conflict. The first Military Intervention was in 1975 led by Ziaur Rahman that resulted in the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s first president and father of the nation. Zia took control, marking it the beginning of a military-backed regime. Later in 1982 Hussain Muhammad Ershad seizes power through a coup, establishing a military dictatorship that lasts until 1990. Post 1990s was peaceful state were government running smoothly and Military Continuous influence often viewed as a stabilizing force during periods of political instability.

July Revolution:

Over the years, public dissatisfaction grew due to economic stagnation, corruption, and growing inequality. The Hasina government faced criticism for its failure to addressing unemployment, and poverty. Despite the dominance of the ruling Awami League, the opposition including the BNP and other political party had struggle to unify. While widespread protests and student-led movement broke out across Bangladesh, demanding economic reforms and resignation of key government officials including Sheikh Hasina.

Corruption and nepotism within the Hasina government was corruption scandals that weakened public confidence to the government to some extent. As further international human rights organisations brought to light evidence against police brutality, suppression on free speech and curtailment of political freedoms.

Then, for sure the military as stabilizing force started to manifest discontent about the way governing handles national problems. The political situation degenerated further, armed forces got into debates regarding the future of country.

While not only the BNP benefited, but new youth wing was formed called Nationalist Citizens Committee (NCC). The NCC gained backing from influential figures within the military, setting the stage for a collaboration that would lead to the July Revolution. The NCC capitalized on the military’s resources and influence, while offering a political reform.

The Military’s Intervention:

As the political climate grew increasingly tense due to widespread protests, student movements, and civil unrest, the military began to position itself as a key player in the events leading up to the revolution. The military’s capacity to seize control of the strategic points in the country like major government buildings, communication networks and transport hubs were vital during the revolution.

On July 1st, in the early hours, the military hurried to secure the landmark buildings surrounding Dhaka, indicating a determination end to the protest. The presence of military vehicles, troops, and personnel in strategic areas marked the beginning of the revolution’s military phase.
Further the military controlled the communication channels, which prevented the government from rallying support. By cutting off key media outlets and communication lines, the military ensured that the public was largely aligned with its view of the revolution. They supported the NCC’s vision and backed it, where it had initially struggled to present a united front against the government.

Finally, it ended in August 5, 2024 when Hasina resigned and fleeted the country and parliament was dissolved then interim government was formed as the old constitution had guidance of sudden resignation or interim government. Now the interim government needs to conduct elections as it waits for NCC gain wide spread awareness among youth and formally became political party by February.