Lakhs of people took to the streets of Dhaka on Monday as news spread that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had resigned and left the country, bowing to the demands of protesters calling for her ouster. Joyful celebrations erupted after weeks of violent clashes. An interim government will take over as Hasina departs Bangladesh.

Defying a nationwide curfew, crowds formed processions in various localities, including Shahbag, Kawran Bazar, Farmgate, and Bangla Motor, leading to Ganobhaban, the Prime Minister's official residence, according to SomoyTV. Protesters were seen climbing on armoured personnel carriers (APCs) in celebration.

Local media reported that Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina departed for India in a helicopter. Before flying out, Hasina and her sister were moved to a "safe shelter" amid escalating protests demanding her resignation.

Bangladesh's Chief of Army Staff, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced that an interim government would take charge soon after consultations with various stakeholders, excluding the Awami League. He indicated that student protests had intensified, calling for an early 'March to Dhaka.' Sunday's clashes left 98 dead, setting the stage for a potentially catastrophic Monday.

Protest leaders advanced their plans, urging one person from every family to join the march to Dhaka. "We are calling upon all freedom-loving people across Bangladesh to start their journey towards Dhaka," Asif Mahmud, a coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, announced on Sunday.

The protests, initially sparked by opposition to a quota system in government jobs, have evolved into a broader movement demanding Prime Minister Hasina's resignation. The July demonstrations, which resulted in over 200 deaths, have fueled ongoing unrest.

On Monday morning, students gathered at the central Shaheed Minar to join the 'March to Dhaka.' Police used teargas and sound grenades to disperse them, reported Prothom Alo. Thousands also took to the streets in Jatrabari, with army personnel and armoured vehicles present.

Protesting students planned to assemble at Ganobhaban on Tuesday, symbolically defying the government. "Our objectives, goals, and destination are clear. Victory alone is our goal," student leader Nahid Islam declared on Sunday.

The violence on Sunday saw 98 deaths, including 14 police officers. Clashes spread across multiple districts, with protesters, police, and members of the Awami League and its affiliates involved.

As the situation escalated, the government imposed an indefinite curfew and a near-total internet blackout to control the unrest. The shutdown has been criticised for exacerbating violence by limiting peaceful communication.

The ruling Awami League has vowed to assert its strength, accusing opposition parties of co-opting the protests. Armed Awami League members were seen confronting protesters alongside law enforcement, reported Prothom Alo.

With the world watching, the "final battle" promised by the protesters could mark one of the most intense confrontations since Bangladesh's 1971 Liberation War.