Fresh violence erupts in Bangladesh

Bangladesh (Commonwealth Union)_ Recent student violence in Bangladesh has claimed over 200 lives, primarily due to police gunfire, with nearly 10,000 individuals detained and over 2,500 injured. Accordingly, the unrest, which erupted in response to a controversial quota system for civil service jobs, has sparked nationwide mourning and protests demanding justice for victims of recent unrest. However, the Supreme Court has put the High Court’s decision on hold and will hear the government’s appeal on August 7.

The escalation of violence – March for Justice

 au.news.yahoo.com

The recent protests have been marked by a series of violent incidents. On Wednesday, Anti-Discriminatory Student Movement organized a “March for Justice” to demand accountability for the recent crackdown on anti-quota protesters. Students from various private universities, schools, and colleges in Dhaka, including BUET, assembled near the High Court gate at Doyel Chattar. Despite police barriers, their resolve allowed them to access the High Court premises to make their voices heard. The situation escalated when police detained two students, Nahid and Arif, leading to further confrontations. The protestors’ demands include the immediate abolition of the quota system, which they claim disproportionately benefits the ruling party and undermines fair employment practices.

Government response

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Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s response to the crisis has been contentious. She has dismissed the protesters’ demands, referring to them critically and asserting that the quota system is essential for preserving the legacy of the 1971 liberation war. Her stance has been met with increasing discontent, both domestically and internationally. In response to the violence, the government has implemented a nationwide curfew and deployed military forces to maintain order. The curfew, which restricts movement and aims to control the chaos, has only added to the public’s frustration. The military’s presence on the streets of Dhaka and other cities underscores the severity of the unrest. Furthermore, on Tuesday, Bangladesh held a nationwide mourning to remember over 200 individuals who lost their lives in recent weeks due to violence stemming from student protests against the country’s government job quota system.

International reactions

India reported that nearly 1,000 Indian students have returned home through various land ports and flights since the violence erupted. International human rights groups have condemned the internet shutdown and the actions of security forces. Additionally, the European Union has expressed deep concern over the violence and the suspension of internet services, which has further isolated Bangladesh from global scrutiny. The European Union has postponed talks on a new cooperation agreement with Bangladesh, intended to bolster economic ties, citing the government’s handling of the unrest as a primary reason. This decision highlights the growing international criticism of the Bangladeshi government’s actions.

Background and cause of the protests

The protests began last month following the High Court’s decision to reinstate a quota system in civil service jobs. This system reserves 30 percent of government positions for the families of freedom fighters and veterans from the 1971 War of Independence. The reintroduction of this quota sparked significant backlash, similar to the 2018 student-led protests that led to the quota’s previous abolition by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. The recent demonstrations, marked by clashes between students, government supporters, and armed police, have turned violent. Students have been at the forefront, rallying against what they perceive as unfair job allocations that benefit only a select group connected to the ruling Awami League party. The students stated that their demonstrations were in protest of mass killings, arrests, attacks, and the disappearances of students and others. The protests have been particularly intense in major cities such as Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna, Barisal, Rajshahi, and Sylhet.

How the quota system works?

The quota system was first introduced in 1972, initially designed to reserve 56 percent of government jobs for various groups, with a significant portion allocated to the families of freedom fighters. The system also included quotas for women (10 percent), underdeveloped districts (10 percent), indigenous communities (5 percent), and disabled individuals (1 percent). Despite its initial intent to promote equity, the system has faced criticism over the years for being misused and limiting job opportunities for many. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government had abolished the quota system in 2018 following extensive protests. However, the recent reinstatement has reignited tensions, leading to violent clashes between demonstrators and law enforcement.

Calls for justice and future prospects

In light of the ongoing violence and widespread disruption, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has sought cooperation from international organizations, including the United Nations, to ensure a fair investigation into the unrest. The Prime Minister has emphasized the need to bring those responsible for the violence to justice, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for accountability in addressing the crisis. Accordingly, organizers are calling for an apology from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the resignation of six ministers in response to the deadly clashes during the subsequent protests. The situation remains fluid, with continued protests and calls for systemic change. The protesters, including students, teachers, and activists, continue to demand an end to the quota system and justice for victims of recent unrest.

As the government and international community navigate this complex situation, the path forward remains uncertain. The resolution of this crisis will depend on both domestic policy changes and international diplomatic efforts. Furthermore, the violence in Bangladesh underscores the deep-seated issues surrounding the quota system and its impact on civil service employment. The ongoing unrest highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address the grievances of the protesters while ensuring justice for those affected by the recent violence. Additionally, the international community’s involvement and the government’s response will be crucial in shaping the future of Bangladesh’s political and social landscape.

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