In recent years, the political landscape in South Asia has seen significant upheaval and protests. From the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in August 2021 to the ouster of Imran Khan as Pakistan’s prime minister in April 2022, to the mass protests in Sri Lanka that forced Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee in July 2022, to the unrest in Bangladesh that led to the resignation of Sheikh Hasina, the region has faced constant political turmoil.
Crisis in Bangladesh: Sheikh Hasina resigns and an interim government is formed
A political crisis erupted in Bangladesh over student protests against civil service quotas, including a 30% reservation for families of freedom fighters. On August 5, 2024, Sheikh Hasina resigned as prime minister and fled the country amid nationwide violence that left around 300 dead and thousands injured. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was named interim leader on August 7, charged with overseeing upcoming elections.
Sri Lanka crisis: mass protests and presidential resignation
In 2022, Sri Lanka suffered a severe financial crisis that sparked nationwide protests in March over food, fuel, and medicine shortages. Protesters demanded political reforms and the ouster of President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. Clashes between pro- and anti-government protesters left nine people dead. Rajapaksa resigned in July and Ranil Wickremesinghe became the new president. Although the government is working with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to stabilize the economy, protests persist as citizens continue to call for transparency and accountability. Sri Lanka’s next presidential election is scheduled for 21 September 2024.
Crisis in Pakistan: the imprisonment of Imran Khan
Imran Khan, a former cricketer and leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, was removed as prime minister through a no-confidence vote in April 2022, following the withdrawal of military support. His dismissal was followed by legal challenges and allegations of corruption, which Khan claimed were politically motivated. He was arrested in August 2023 on charges related to corruption and inciting violence. His imprisonment sparked widespread protests by his supporters. Pakistan continues to grapple with a failing economy, high inflation, and a looming debt crisis exacerbated by loans linked to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
Crisis in Afghanistan: Taliban seize power
Afghanistan saw rapid political upheaval with the Taliban’s military offensive, culminating in the capture of Kabul on 15 August 2021, following the withdrawal of US troops. This marked the collapse of the US-backed Afghan government, in power since 2001. Afghanistan now faces a humanitarian crisis, deteriorating ties with Pakistan due to terrorist activity, and severe restrictions on women’s rights under the Taliban regime. Although the Taliban have not been officially recognised by most of the international community, including India, trade relations remain stable.
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