Bangladesh plunged into political chaos on Monday as the country’s Army chief announced Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and departure from the country. This followed weeks of violent protests over job quotas that had unsettled the nation.
Following reports of Hasina’s exit, a flight with the callsign AJAX1431 became the most tracked on Flightradar24.com. It is believed to be carrying Hasina and her sister, who reportedly left Dhaka on Monday, August 5 amidst the growing unrest.
Sheikh Hasina’s Flight Disappears From Flight Radar
According to Flightradar24.com, flight AJAX1431, a Lockheed C-130J Hercules military transport jet operated by the Bangladesh Air Force, departed from Bangladesh in the afternoon.
It flew towards Kolkata before heading to New Delhi. Around 5 pm, the flight disappeared from Flightradar24.com while over Lucknow. Sources informed India Today TV that the aircraft landed at the Hindon Indian Air Force base near Delhi at 5:36 pm.
Sheikh Hasina’s subsequent plans are uncertain, but there is widespread speculation that she may travel to a European country after a brief stop in India. If reports are to be trusted, she might land in London.
The Lockheed C-130J Hercules is a four-engine turboprop military transport aircraft, renowned for its versatility and reliability. It is commonly used for missions such as tactical airlift, search and rescue, and special operations. The C-130J is an updated version of the classic C-130 Hercules, featuring new engines, a modern flight deck, and advanced systems, making it well-suited for critical missions.
The Bangladesh Air Force recently enhanced its fleet by acquiring C-130J Super Hercules aircraft from the UK Ministry of Defence.
What Happened Behind Sheikh Hasina’s Back?
Meanwhile, in Dhaka, the Bangladesh Army chief addressed the nation, announcing that Sheikh Hasina had resigned. General Waker-Uz-Zaman mentioned that he had conducted “fruitful” discussions with leaders of all major political parties he had “invited” and planned to meet President Mohammed Shahabuddin to discuss the future course of action.
“I assure you all, we will bring justice for all the murders and injustices. Please have faith in the country’s army. I take full responsibility and promise you not to be disheartened,” he said, indicating that the Army would assist in forming an interim government to lead the country.
These developments come after weeks of violent and deadly protests in Bangladesh over a government jobs quota scheme. The protests, mainly led by students, had been ongoing since June.
The Sheikh Hasina government’s attempts to suppress the demonstrations through force, curfews, and internet shutdowns backfired, causing further outrage and resulting in nearly 300 deaths.
The government’s actions led to calls for her resignation just months after her Awami League returned to power in elections marred by allegations of rigging.
Sheikh Hasina’s removal and subsequent departure from Bangladesh mark the end of a 15-year reign during which she was perceived to have ruled the country with an iron fist.
