Bolivia has been burning for 50 days, food crisis; Why was 90 days emergency imposed?

Protests against the government have been going on in the South American country Bolivia for the last 50 days. After the situation worsened, President Rodrigo Paz has imposed emergency in the entire country for 90 days. Army has also been deployed to remove demonstrations and road jams. The movement started with the demand for the resignation of President Paz. But gradually inflation, fuel prices, land related laws and economic problems also got included in it.

Protestors set up barricades and blockades on several major roads, affecting the supply of food, fuel and medicines across the country. The biggest reason for the protest was the government’s decision to end fuel subsidy. The government took this step due to the country’s increasing financial deficit, shortage of US dollars and ongoing negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Land reform law also opposed

In this law, permission was given to mortgage the land for loan. People feared that this could lead to bigger companies taking over the land. The government later tried to control fuel prices and withdraw some decisions related to land reforms, but by then the movement had intensified. Violent clashes took place between protesters and police at many places.

According to government figures, 365 people have been arrested so far and 37 people have been injured. Due to road jams and chaos, treatment was delayed, due to which 17 people were reported to have died. Workers, transport workers, teachers, rural communities and other labor organizations also took part in the protest. He says that the government has failed to handle inflation, rising cost of living and economic crisis.

Former President also supported the movement

Supporters of former President Evo Morales also supported the movement and blocked roads. Due to this the shortage of food, fuel and medical goods further increased. President Paz said that people’s everyday lives are being affected due to road closures. Therefore, the roads will be opened with the help of army and bulldozers. The government claims that this step has been taken to restore peace and normalcy in the country. Although many people are supporting it, a large number of protesters are still demanding the resignation of the President.

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