Ahead of ‘long march’ to Dhaka, Bangladesh experiences internet shutdown

By Faisal Mahmud and Riyaz ul Khaliq

DHAKA, Bangladesh / ISTANBUL (AA) - Ahead of an anti-government “long march” to Bangladesh's capital Dhaka, the country on Monday witnessed a shutdown of internet services in the country, according to an Anadolu correspondent in Dhaka.

People from at least five different places, including the capital Dhaka, told Anadolu that there was no internet service.

"A total shutdown of the internet has been ordered," national daily Prothom Alo reported, citing a government order.

There was no immediate response from the government whether it had issued orders for internet shutdown.

Bangladesh witnessed renewed protests across the country on Sunday, calling on the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down.

At least 93 people were killed across the country, hospital sources told Anadolu.

Protests, led mostly by students, plan to hold a long march to Dhaka on Monday but the government has imposed an indefinite curfew to thwart any such march.

Premier Hasina on Sunday threatened to use “heavy hand” against those who commit “terrorism” or “spread anarchy” in the country.

Bangladesh has seen mass demonstrations since early July, first seeking reforms in public jobs, now seeking the resignation of Hasina.

Students launched a non-cooperation movement on Sunday to press the prime minister to resign.