In August 2024, Sheikh Hasina's tenure as Prime Minister of Bangladesh culminated in a dramatic and turbulent series of events, leading to her reluctant resignation and subsequent exile in India. As widespread protests engulfed Dhaka, Hasina initially defied mounting pressure from military officials, political allies, and even family members to step down.
The turning point occurred on the morning of August 5, 2024, at her official residence, Ganabhaban, where Hasina firmly refused to resign despite repeated ultimatums. According to Mohammad Tajul Islam, chief prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, Hasina reportedly declared to senior armed forces officers, "Then shoot me and bury me here, in Ganabhaban," underscoring the intensity of her resolve amid the unfolding crisis.
On the preceding night, August 4, Ganabhaban became the epicenter of crisis discussions among ministers, security chiefs, and senior party figures as the “Long March to Dhaka” protests swelled. Defence advisor Maj Gen (retd) Tarique Ahmed Siddique proposed resignation, which Hasina rejected vehemently, instructing the military to suppress the demonstrations. A proposed helicopter crackdown on protesters was ultimately dismissed following objections from the air force chief.
For a time, Hasina was supported by a close group of loyalists, known as the "Gang of Four" — Obaidul Quader, Asaduzzaman Khan, Anisul Huq, and Salman F Rahman — who urged her to remain steadfast. However, internal dissent grew, with figures like Parliament Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury suggesting the necessity of stepping aside. Security forces found themselves overwhelmed as ammunition ran low and control became untenable.
The military issued a final warning that protesters were encircling Dhaka. Even Hasina’s sister, Sheikh Rehana, pleaded with her to resign for the sake of the nation. Ultimately, it was Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who convinced her to yield. She requested to deliver a farewell speech, which the military declined due to time constraints and escalating urgency.
Allowed only 45 minutes to prepare, Hasina departed Bangladesh and crossed into India by 11 am on August 5. Hours later, the army chief addressed the nation, signaling the military's takeover as tens of thousands of demonstrators flooded the capital, marking a profound political upheaval in Bangladesh's history.