In 2024, Bangladesh witnessed a significant student-led movement known as the ‘Anti-Discrimination Students Movement’; which played a pivotal role in the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The student movement was a significant chapter in the nation’s history, fight for justice, equality, and human rights; driven by outrage over systemic failures The movement began as a protest in 15 July as students of Dhaka University were sitting with placards and flags peacefully in response to the reinstatement of a quota allocation for government jobs in Bangladesh. They demanded an end to a controversial government job quota system that reserved 30% of government jobs for the families of veterans who fought in Bangladesh’s war of independence against Pakistan in 1971 which many students viewed as discriminatory amid high youth unemployment. The law enforcement agencies, including the Police, RAB, and BGB, as well as members of the ruling party’s student, youth and volunteer wings, were involved in violent confrontations with the protesters. These clashes resulted in numerous deaths, including among protesters, law enforcement personnel, and children. Despite the significant loss of life, Sheikh Hasina’s government denied to take any responsibility, attributing the violence to other factors. The demand resonated across the nation, particularly among the youth, as a symbol of their broader fight against inequality and favoritism. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, whose government was labeled as increasingly authoritarian by critics, the state’s violent response left a profound psychological impact on the people. While the government eventually scrapped the quota system, the journey toward this victory was fraught with turmoil, violence, and suffering. Though the victory brought massive joy to us but the scars left by deaths, injury, violence, and repression persist, shaping the collective psyche of Bangladeshi society.
The movement witnessed several tragic deaths, both directly and indirectly tied to the protests. Students and young activists became victims of state-sponsored brutality, with reports of extrajudicial killings, disappearances, and severe injuries. The death toll, though underreported, was a stark reminder of the state’s willingness to silence dissent at any cost. While the movement was a landmark in challenging systemic social biases and institutionalized discrimination, its psychological aftermath has often remained in the shadows. Many students and activists who participated in these movements faced a range of mental health challenges that have gone largely unspoken.
In Bangladesh, individuals experienced trauma through various channels like students and activists who faced physical attacks and arrests; the public, including parents and bystanders, who watched the violence unfold in person or through media coverage; those who felt a sense of helplessness, fear, or anxiety about the country’s future. The mental trauma of the mass population manifested in several ways. The violent suppression of protests created an atmosphere of fear, particularly among students and their families. Participants, especially students, may experience anxiety due to confrontations with authorities or threats of violence. Families of protesters may face stress and fear for their loved ones’ safety, leading to long term psychological strain. One of the most common but least addressed issues among these activists is PTSD. Symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and emotional numbness plague many activists. Yet, the social stigma surrounding mental health has prevented many from seeking help. As a result, the trauma has often festered in silence. The blatant use of force and lack of accountability eroded public trust in law enforcement and government institutions. This distrust has lingered, affecting people’s willingness to engage in civic responsibilities or trust state mechanisms.
The youth, particularly the student protesters, bore the brunt of the trauma. Many reported feelings of loss, helplessness, and the experience marked the beginning of a long battle with mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Constant exposure to graphic images and videos of violence through social media amplified the trauma. The circulation of misinformation and propaganda further added to the psychological toll on the masses. In cases of casualties, families and friends may struggle with grief and anger, impacting their mental well-being. During the height of the movement and its aftermath, mental health infrastructure in Bangladesh was severely underdeveloped. Even today, mental health services remain limited and inaccessible for many. Universities, where much of the activism took place, lacked counseling services, and students had few resources to cope with the psychological toll of their experiences. The lack of institutional support not only hindered recovery but also perpetuated the stigma surrounding mental health. Many activists were left feeling abandoned by the very systems they had sought to reform, deepening their sense of betrayal and alienation.
The aftermath of an anti-discrimination student movement in Bangladesh, can have profound psychological and societal effects. These impacts often vary depending on the movement’s intensity, outcomes, and the broader societal response. The mental health struggles faced by the activists of the anti-discrimination student movement in Bangladesh offer important lessons for future generations. Acknowledging the psychological costs of activism is crucial for building sustainable movements and supporting the well-being of those who fight for social change.
The government must acknowledge the trauma caused by its actions and hold perpetrators accountable. This step is crucial for rebuilding trust and fostering a sense of justice. Peer support groups and mental health initiatives within activist circles can provide a safe space for sharing experiences and coping strategies. Recognizing the value of community care is a critical step toward healing. Access to mental health resources must be expanded, particularly for students and young activists who bore the brunt of the trauma. Community-based support programs can also play a critical role in fostering healing. Establishing accessible counseling services for affected individuals can mitigate trauma. Universities and other institutions must prioritize mental health services, providing access to counseling, therapy, and crisis intervention. Policies that increase funding for mental health services, protect the rights of those with mental health conditions, and promote workplace mental health initiatives are essential. Changing societal attitudes toward mental health requires a collective effort. Public awareness campaigns, media representation, and community dialogues can help challenge stigma and normalize conversations about psychological well-being.
The anti-discrimination student movement was a turning point that exposed the deep flaws in governance and society. This was a pivotal moment in the country’s history, highlighting the courage of its youth and the systemic issues they sought to address. The unspoken struggles of mental health following the anti-discrimination student movement in Bangladesh reveal a complex and painful legacy. While the movement achieved significant victories in the fight for justice, its emotional toll on a generation of activists must not be overlooked. However, the movement also left a trail of mental trauma that continues to affect the masses. The lessons from this movement underscore the importance of empathy, accountability, and collective action in navigating the complexities of social change. By acknowledging these experiences and working toward systemic change, Bangladesh can honor the sacrifices of its student activists and build a future where mental health is recognized as a fundamental component of social justice.
ATIFA ANJUMAN is a Broadcast Journalist and News Presenter of Independent Television.
