Clashes erupt across Bangladesh as quota reform movement escalates, leave 6 dead
Violent clashes between quota reformists and law enforcement, as well as the ruling Awami League’s student wing, the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), have resulted in at least six deaths and numerous injuries over the past two days. Three fatalities occurred in Chattogram, two in Dhaka, and one in Rangpur district amid escalating tensions.
In response to the unrest, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been deployed in several key areas, including Dhaka, Gazipur, Chattogram, Bogura, Rangpur, and Rajshahi, to restore order. The University Grants Commission has announced the closure of all public and private universities, along with affiliated medical colleges, indefinitely to ensure student safety. The Education Ministry has also ordered the shutdown of all secondary and higher secondary institutions, including polytechnic institutes.
Traffic in Dhaka came to a standstill on Tuesday morning as students blocked critical intersections while demanding quota reforms. Protests have spread nationwide, with significant roadblocks in Chattogram, Rangpur, and Rajshahi, affecting major highways. Protesters also obstructed rail lines, leading to disruptions in train services, notably in Dhaka’s Mohakhali area.
Tensions escalated following an alleged attack by the BCL on protesting students at Dhaka University on Sunday night, intensifying nationwide demonstrations against the ruling party’s affiliated group. Thousands of students are actively participating in protests, demanding accountability for the BCL’s actions and advocating for reforms in the existing quota system.
Law Minister Anisul Huq stated that the government will adhere to the High Court’s authority regarding the quota reform issue. The agitating students are calling for the cancellation of a controversial High Court order from June 5, which reinstated a 30 percent job quota for the descendants of freedom fighters from the 1971 liberation war.
The quota system has a long history in Bangladesh, originally reserving 30 percent of jobs for freedom fighters’ descendants, later extending to grandchildren. Following widespread protests in 2018, a government circular abolished quotas for first- and second-class jobs. However, the recent High Court ruling has reinstated these quotas, leading to the current turmoil, with the government appealing the decision.
As protests continue, the situation remains fluid, with students determined to pursue their demands for reform and justice.
