Hasina Ordered ‘Shoot on Sight’ Before Coup?

Dhaka : A sensational political storm is brewing in Bangladesh following a leaked audio clip that allegedly features Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ordering security forces to shoot protestors on sight ahead of a reported coup attempt. The explosive recording, now widely circulating on social media, has triggered national outrage and drawn international attention.

In the leaked audio, a voice said to be Hasina’s can be heard instructing an officer: “Wherever you see them, shoot. Don’t wait. No need to arrest.” The conversation is alleged to have taken place just hours before a wave of anti-government protests rocked the capital Dhaka last week. The government has neither confirmed nor denied the authenticity of the audio, calling it “an attempt to destabilize the country.”

Sources suggest that the Bangladesh Army and intelligence agencies have launched an internal probe into the leak, as well as the alleged power struggle within the ruling structure. Rumors of an internal coup or rebellion have been circulating, though no official confirmation has emerged.

Opposition leaders and human rights organizations have condemned the audio, labeling the statement as a violation of constitutional rights and “an open endorsement of violence.” Some are now calling for an international investigation, saying the Prime Minister must be held accountable if the clip is proven genuine.

Hasina’s supporters, however, are rallying behind her, arguing the audio may be doctored or taken out of context to frame her. They claim such tactics are commonly used by “foreign powers and internal traitors” trying to weaken the nation’s leadership.

This isn’t the first time Sheikh Hasina has been at the center of controversy over her alleged authoritarian approach. However, if verified, this incident could have massive political fallout, both domestically and globally. Bangladesh is currently facing growing dissent over issues like inflation, unemployment, and allegations of electoral manipulation.

As the storm intensifies, all eyes are now on Dhaka. The people await clarity—was this an actual command from the nation’s highest office, or a calculated smear campaign aimed at toppling the government?