(Reuters) - In a dramatic turn of events, Bangladesh's parliament was dissolved on Tuesday, the president's office announced, marking a significant escalation in the nation's political crisis. This decision comes a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country in the wake of violent protests demanding her ouster.

Earlier, army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced Hasina's resignation in a televised address to the nation and said an interim government would be formed. He said he had held talks with leaders of major political parties - excluding Hasina's long-ruling Awami League - and would soon meet President Mohammed Shahabuddin to discuss the way ahead. "The country is going through a revolutionary period," said Zaman, 58, who had taken over as army chief only on June 23.

The political turmoil reached its peak on Monday when Hasina, facing intense pressure and widespread demonstrations, chose to step down. The protests, which initially began as a movement against job quotas, rapidly evolved into a nationwide call for her resignation. The situation deteriorated further as hundreds were reportedly killed in a government crackdown on the demonstrators.

The president's office confirmed the dissolution of parliament just hours after student leaders, who have been at the forefront of the protests, set a deadline for the dissolution and threatened a "strict programme" of further action if their demands were not met.

The unrest has gripped the capital, Dhaka, with scenes of jubilant but chaotic celebrations following Hasina's departure. Protesters stormed the opulent grounds of the presidential residence, looting furniture and electronics in a frenzied display of their triumph. Witnesses described surreal scenes: one man was seen balancing a red velvet, gilt-edged chair on his head, while another carried an armful of vases.

The political future of Bangladesh remains uncertain as the nation grapples with the aftermath of these unprecedented events. With the parliament dissolved and the prime minister in exile, questions loom large about the path forward for the country's governance and stability.