The Role of Political Parties in Bangladesh’s July Revolution of 2024: Insights from Sufi Perspectives

This research examines the role and political dynamics of Bangladeshi political parties, particularly Sufi-based parties, during the widespread student and public protests against the Awami League government from July 1 to August 5, 2024. The objective is to understand how these parties influenced the uprising, known as the July Revolution, which culminated in over 1,500 deaths and 31,000 injuries and ultimately led to the fall of the Awami League’s 16-year rule. The study employs a qualitative methodology with the theory of revolutions, theory of resistances and theory of authoritarianism, analysing primary and secondary sources to explore the political, social, and human rights issues surrounding the uprising. Findings indicate that public frustration with the authoritarian governance, allegations of human rights violations, and significant events—including the BDR rebellion, Sufi-based Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh’s clashes at Shapla Chattar, and targeted actions against opposition figures—intensified public dissent. The study discusses the implications of the uprising for Bangladesh’s political landscape, emphasising the influential role of Sufi-based parties and their grassroots mobilisation efforts. This article provides original insights into the intersection of religious and political activism in Bangladesh, offering a foundation for future studies on the region’s civil unrest and political reform.