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Tension Rises in Bangladesh as Students Protest for Civil Service Job Reforms
Tension escalates in Bangladesh as students demand reforms in civil service jobs, sparking protests and calls for change. Stay updated on the latest developments.
Tens of thousands of students in Bangladesh’s capital, Dhaka, took to the streets to demand the abolition of quotas for civil service jobs and push for a merit-based selection process. The protests erupted after a recent court decision reinstated government job quotas, which were initially removed in 2018 following a previous nationwide student protest. Despite a temporary halt by the appellate division, the demonstrations continued, causing disruptions in the city.
Impact on Dhaka’s Traffic and Infrastructure
The student protesters blocked main streets, entry and exit points, and key intersections in Dhaka, leading to significant traffic congestion and disruptions to the city’s metro rail route. The demonstrations culminated in a large sit-in at the Shahbag area, where some protesters even climbed police vehicles in defiance.
Voices from the Protest
Akram Hossain, a coordinator from the 2018 anti-quota movement, highlighted the impact of the quota system on talented students, limiting their opportunities for important roles like teaching. The current protests aim to challenge the reservation of more than 50 percent of government jobs for quota holders, including descendants of freedom fighters.
Historical Context and Organized Resistance
In 2018, students nationwide protested against the existing quota system, leading to a government announcement to abolish quotas and shift to a merit-based job allocation. The current movement, driven by a more organized approach, reflects a growing discontent with outdated quota practices and a call for government action.
Continued Demonstrations Across Bangladesh
Students from various universities, including the University of Dhaka, joined protests in cities like Chattogram, Comilla, Rajshahi, and Sylhet. Reports of police using force to disperse protests at Comilla University underscore the intensity of the demonstrations. Protest leaders are demanding a special parliamentary session to address their concerns and enact reforms.