In a development that has sparked outrage across Bangladesh’s political and civil society landscape, an alleged leaked audio recording claims that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina authorised security forces to use lethal weapons against protesters, instructing them to “shoot” to restore order during recent anti-government demonstrations.
The Leaked Audio And Its Content
The audio clip, widely circulated by opposition activists on social media, reportedly captures Hasina telling top officials:
“Use lethal weapons. They must be taught a lesson. Shoot if needed.”
While the government has neither confirmed nor denied the authenticity of the audio, ministers dismissed it as “doctored propaganda” by opposition forces aiming to destabilise the country ahead of upcoming municipal and national elections.
Context: Widespread Protests In Bangladesh
Bangladesh has witnessed mounting protests against price rises, power shortages, and corruption allegations. The largest demonstrations have been led by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and student organisations demanding:
- Resignation of PM Hasina
- Formation of a neutral caretaker government to oversee fair elections
- Rollback of fuel price hikes and essential commodity inflation
The protests turned violent in several districts, with reports of security forces using rubber bullets, tear gas, and baton charges to disperse crowds.
Opposition Reaction
BNP leaders reacted sharply to the leaked audio, calling it proof of authoritarianism. Party spokesperson Ruhul Kabir Rizvi stated:
“This exposes her fascist face. We demand an international investigation into this order to kill Bangladeshi citizens exercising their democratic rights.”
Government Response: Dismissal As ‘Fake News’
Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan said:
“We believe this is fabricated. Our Prime Minister has always prioritised peace. Legal action will be taken against those spreading disinformation to incite violence.”
Human Rights Organisations Raise Alarm
Human rights groups, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, expressed concern, urging:
- Independent forensic verification of the audio recording
- Immediate halt to any violent crackdowns
- Protection of democratic rights to assemble and protest
They warned that indiscriminate use of lethal force violates Bangladesh’s obligations under international human rights treaties.
Timeline Of Recent Unrest
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 2025 | Protests erupt over power cuts and rising fuel prices |
| June 2025 | BNP holds nationwide demonstrations demanding caretaker government |
| Early July 2025 | Violent clashes between protesters and security forces in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Khulna |
| July 2025 | Leaked audio surfaces allegedly containing PM Hasina’s shoot orders |
Bangladesh’s Political Landscape Under Hasina
Sheikh Hasina has ruled Bangladesh since 2009 with her Awami League party enjoying overwhelming parliamentary control. However, her tenure has faced allegations of:
- Curtailing press freedom
- Suppressing opposition leaders through arrests and sedition charges
- Centralising executive power to an extent unseen since Bangladesh’s return to democracy in 1991
Analysts note that while her government has ensured impressive economic growth, rising youth unemployment, inflation, and governance issues have fuelled discontent.
International Reactions
The US State Department, when asked about the leaked audio, stated:
“We are aware of these reports and urge all parties to respect democratic processes and human rights, including freedom of assembly.”
India, Bangladesh’s closest ally, has not issued an official comment, maintaining its longstanding policy of non-interference in Dhaka’s internal political affairs.
Potential Implications If Audio Is Authentic
If forensic analysis confirms the audio’s authenticity:
- Domestic backlash may intensify with protests gaining moral legitimacy.
- International condemnation could escalate, affecting Bangladesh’s trade benefits under GSP frameworks with Western nations.
- Security crackdown may deepen if the government attempts to suppress the scandal.
Supporters Rally Behind Hasina
Awami League supporters argue that:
- The protests are being fuelled by radical Islamist and extremist groups aiming to destabilise national security.
- The Prime Minister’s strong stand is necessary to maintain order and economic continuity amid global economic shocks and regional instability.
Strategic Importance Of Political Stability
Bangladesh is South Asia’s second-largest economy with major investments from India, China, Japan, and European manufacturing companies. Any escalation in political violence could:
- Disrupt supply chains, particularly the garment sector employing over 4 million workers.
- Trigger refugee movements into neighbouring Indian states if violence spreads.
- Shift regional power equations, especially if extremist groups exploit the unrest.
Legal And Constitutional Perspectives
Legal experts in Dhaka caution that:
- Ordering lethal force without due legal process could be challenged under Bangladesh’s constitution.
- Command responsibility doctrines under international law may apply if evidence of extrajudicial killings surfaces.
What Happens Next
- Forensic verification: Opposition is demanding international digital forensics to establish authenticity.
- Judicial scrutiny: Public interest litigations are expected in Dhaka courts this week.
- Rising protests: With the audio leak becoming a rallying point, demonstrations are expected to intensify across campuses and urban centres.
Conclusion
The alleged leaked audio, claiming Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina authorised use of lethal force against protesters, has deepened political fault lines in Bangladesh, raising crucial questions about democratic rights, constitutional governance, and state accountability. As demands for investigation gain momentum, the coming weeks could prove decisive for the country’s political trajectory ahead of its national elections.
Disclaimer
This content is based on emerging media reports, official statements, and political analyses. Readers are advised to follow verified government releases, judicial updates, and independent forensic assessments for the most accurate and official information.
