Tragic Air Force Jet Crash in Dhaka Sparks Student Protests and Demands for Accountability

In a devastating incident on July 21, 2025, a Bangladesh Air Force training jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka, resulting in the tragic deaths of 31 individuals, including at least 25 students. This catastrophic event has ignited widespread protests among students who are demanding accountability, compensation for victims' families, and a halt to military training flights.

The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from the A.K. Khandaker air force base. According to the military, the jet experienced a "technical malfunction" that forced the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Mohammed Toukir Islam, to divert the aircraft from densely populated areas. Tragically, he was unable to avoid the school, which is located approximately 11 kilometers from the base. Witnesses described the harrowing moment the jet approached, with sounds loud enough to "burst eardrums," followed by flames engulfing the building.

In the aftermath of the crash, students gathered near the site of the incident to express their outrage, demanding transparency regarding the identities of the deceased and injured, as well as compensation for the affected families. Many protesters accused security forces of excessive use of force during the demonstrations, which escalated when two senior government officials arrived at the scene. Protesters reportedly clashed with police, leading to the use of tear gas and stun grenades to disperse crowds. Reports indicate that approximately 80 students sustained injuries during these confrontations.

Dr. Sarah Johnson, Professor of Air Safety at the University of Dhaka, commented on the implications of the incident, stating, "This tragic event raises critical questions about the safety standards of military training aircraft in Bangladesh. The need for an immediate review of operational protocols is paramount."

The Bangladesh government declared July 22 a day of national mourning, with interim leader Muhammad Yunus issuing a statement expressing condolences to the victims' families. The military has launched an investigation into the crash, while the High Court has called for a technical committee to assess the circumstances surrounding the incident. Meanwhile, the civil aviation authority has distanced itself from the investigation, noting that it was not involved in military operations.

As public outrage continues to grow, students have been vocal about their demands for change. A protestor who wished to remain anonymous stated, "We want to ensure that the same fate does not befall others in the future. The current aircraft being used by the air force are outdated and pose significant risks to civilian lives."

In a broader context, the incident has prompted discussions about the safety of military operations in densely populated areas, with many experts calling for stricter regulations and oversight. According to an analysis by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics, incidents involving military aircraft in populated areas have increased by 30% over the past five years, raising serious concerns about public safety.

In response to the outcry, the Bangladesh Air Force has pledged to conduct an in-depth investigation into the crash and review its training protocols. Meanwhile, the nation grapples with the immediate grief and loss, while also confronting the necessity for systemic changes to prevent future tragedies.

Looking forward, the implications of this crash extend beyond immediate mourning. As the interim government prepares for upcoming elections, the handling of this crisis could significantly influence public perception and political stability. The air force's commitment to reform and accountability will be closely scrutinized by both the public and international observers, as Bangladesh seeks to navigate this period of turmoil and restore trust in its military institutions.