Violent protests continue to rock Bangladesh as students demand reforms to the controversial quota system for government jobs. The system, which reserves 30% of positions for descendants of independence war veterans, has been criticized as discriminatory and favoring ruling party allies. The unrest has escalated dramatically, with at least 12 people killed and hundreds injured in clashes with police and pro-government activists.Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has condemned the violence and promised justice for those killed. However, students have rejected her words as insincere and vowed to continue their nationwide shutdown. In response, the government has closed universities indefinitely, deployed the army, and cut mobile internet services to quell the protests.The latest development sees the government expressing willingness to engage in dialogue with the protesters. Law Minister Anisul Huq and Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury have been tasked with leading these discussions. Additionally, the government has decided to form a judicial probe committee to investigate the violent incidents that have claimed at least seven lives, including four students.The protests, which began on July 1, have been marked by violent clashes across the country. In one incident at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB), at least five students were injured in an attack by Bangladesh Chhatra League members. The situation remains tense, with students demanding a merit-based system for government jobs and the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party pledging support for the shutdown.
Key points
- Violent protests in Bangladesh over job quota system have resulted in at least 12 deaths.
- The government has offered dialogue and announced a judicial probe into the violence.
- Students have rejected the Prime Minister’s statements and continue to demand reforms.
- The government has responded with university closures, internet restrictions, and army deployment.
Contradictions👾There are discrepancies in the reported death toll, with some sources citing 6 deaths, others 9, and the most recent report stating 12.
👾While some sources report that the government has rejected protesters’ demands, others indicate a willingness for dialogue.
