Demands for Nationwide Shutdown
Some protesters have called for a complete nationwide shutdown, demanding an end to the quota system that reserves government jobs for specific groups. According to protest coordinator Nahid Islam, all establishments will remain closed, except for hospitals and emergency services, with ambulance services being the sole permitted transport.
Violent Clashes and Casualties
For the past few days, violent clashes have erupted between protesters and members of the student wing of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s governing Awami League party, resulting in at least six deaths and hundreds of injuries.
Clashes between protesters and authorities have been intense, with police firing bullets and tear gas to scatter protesters. At least three students were among the six killed in Tuesday’s clashes, according to police reports. The violence has prompted widespread concern, with rights groups, the United Nations, and the United States urging Bangladesh to protect peaceful protesters from violence. As you read this, the situation remains tense, with authorities struggling to maintain law and order.
Unemployment and Quota System
If you’re wondering what sparked the protests, it’s important to understand the context of unemployment and the quota system in Bangladesh. With nearly 32 million people out of work or education in a population of 170 million, the youth are frustrated with the lack of job opportunities. The quota system, which reserves 30% of government jobs for the families of veterans of the 1971 independence war, has been a point of contention for many. You can see why the students are demanding its abolition
Government Response and Investigation
With the protests turning violent, the government has responded by promising to set up a judicial panel to investigate the deaths and injuries. In an address to the nation, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina assured the students that the panel would look into the matter.
The government’s response has been a mixed bag. On one hand, the Prime Minister has promised to investigate the violence and has asked the students to be patient until the judicial panel’s verdict. On the other hand, the authorities have taken a heavy-handed approach by closing universities indefinitely and deploying riot police and paramilitary forces to university campuses. You might wonder if this approach will help to diffuse the situation or exacerbate it further.
