DHAKA, Bangladesh - Massive anti-government protests in Bangladesh have turned violent, resulting in the deaths of nearly 100 people and leaving hundreds injured. The demonstrations, which began last month, have escalated in intensity with protesters demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

According to leading Bengali-language daily, Prothom Alo, the violence has claimed the lives of at least 95 people, including 14 police officers. Another report from Channel 24 stated at least 85 deaths. In an attempt to suppress the unrest, the government has implemented a new curfew, including in the capital city of Dhaka and other major districts and headquarters.

The current wave of protests originally started as a response to the quota system for government jobs, with students leading the demand for its abolition. However, the demonstrations quickly spiraled into violent clashes, resulting in over 200 deaths. Prime Minister Hasina has described the protesters as criminals and called for the use of force to deal with them.

The ruling Awami League party has accused the main opposition, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, and the Jamaat-e-Islami party, which has been banned, of infiltrating and hijacking the protests. Furthermore, the government has taken measures to control the situation, including an internet shutdown, closure of courts, and the arrest of over 11,000 individuals in recent weeks.

The protests have led to the closure of schools and universities throughout the country, with transportation in major cities severely disrupted. Instances of violence and vandalism have also been reported, such as the attack on Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University and the torching of vehicles. Videos have surfaced, showing clashes between protesters and police, with authorities resorting to the use of bullets, rubber bullets, and tear gas.

In response to the escalating situation, the Supreme Court of Bangladesh recently ruled that the quota system for veterans' families be reduced to 5%, with the majority of jobs to be allocated based on merit. However, protesters continue to demand accountability for the violence and stand firm in their call for Prime Minister Hasina's resignation.

The ongoing protests pose a significant challenge for Prime Minister Hasina, who has held office for over 15 years. Her return to power for a fourth consecutive term earlier this year was marred by controversy, as her main opponents boycotted the election. In an effort to address the concerns of the protesters, Hasina has invited student leaders for talks and has pledged to investigate the deaths and punish those responsible.

With the country deeply divided and tensions running high, the Bangladesh government faces the daunting task of restoring peace and stability, while balancing the demands of the protesters and maintaining its grip on power.