Six killed as job quota protests intensify in Bangladesh

New Delhi, July 17: The Bangladeshi government has deployed paramilitary forces in response to escalating protests against recently introduced job quotas. The demonstrations, led by university students, have resulted in the deaths of six individuals including students raising concerns about stability in the nation.

For several weeks, students across Bangladesh have been protesting the government’s decision to reinstate job quotas, which were abolished in 2018 following similar protests.

These quotas reserve a portion of government jobs for the relatives of war heroes, women, ethnic minorities, and the disabled. Critics argue that the system is discriminatory and advocate for a merit-based recruitment process.

The protests have led to the indefinite closure of schools and universities throughout the country. Clashes between anti-quota protesters and their opponents, including the student wing of the ruling Awami League, have been reported in several cities, including Dhaka. Hundreds of demonstrators have been injured in these confrontations.

Government Response and Security Measures

In response to the violence, the Border Guard of Bangladesh has been deployed to five districts to help manage the situation. The government has also partially restricted access to Facebook, and other social media platforms used by protesters to organize and share information.

The job quota system, which reserves over 50% of government jobs for certain groups, was initially established to reward those who fought for Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971. IN 2018, it was abolished. Despite economic growth and a thriving private sector, government jobs remain highly in demand due to their stability and benefits.

The recent court ruling to reinstate a 30% quota for descendants of war heroes has reignited tensions, with students arguing that merit should be the primary criterion for government employment.

Political Ramifications

The protests, which began at the University of Dhaka, have spread to other universities and cities, becoming increasingly political. The ruling Awami League has accused opposition groups of infiltrating the movement and inciting violence. In response, the government has raided the headquarters of the main opposition party, BNP, in Dhaka.

Despite the Supreme Court’s temporary suspension of the quota system, protests are expected to continue until a permanent solution is reached. The court has scheduled a hearing for August 7, where students will have the opportunity to present their case. Student leaders have vowed to persist with their demonstrations until their demands for a merit-based recruitment system are met.