Bangladesh is experiencing a near-total internet shutdown amid student protests

Bangladesh is currently facing a complete internet shutdown as the government aims to suppress widespread student protests related to the country's quota system for government jobs. The protests have led to at least 32 deaths, with demonstrators storming state broadcaster BTV in Dhaka, resulting in further casualties. To control the situation, authorities have cut off internet and phone access nationwide, a common tactic in South Asia to curb the spread of misinformation and maintain state control. Internet shutdowns are increasingly used globally to manage conflicts, with Access Now reporting a rise in such incidents worldwide. Bangladesh has a history of internet blackouts to silence political opposition, leading to a downgrade in its civic space rating. Despite previous promises to maintain internet access during elections, the country has resorted to blocking news websites during electoral periods. The recent shutdown in Bangladesh underscores the government's efforts to control information flow amid ongoing unrest.