Why Are Bangladeshi Students Protesting Job Quotas?
Violence Erupts in Bangladesh Over Job Quota Protests
Violence in Bangladesh has resulted in at least six deaths and hundreds of injuries as students protest against the job quota system for government positions.
What Sparked the Protests? Protests began last month when the High Court reinstated a job quota system, reversing a 2018 decision by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government to abolish it. This system reserved 30% of jobs for families of freedom fighters from the 1971 independence war. The Supreme Court has since suspended this decision and will review the case on August 7. The students intensified their protests after Hasina refused to meet their demands, calling them “razakar,” a term for those accused of betraying Bangladesh in 1971.
What Is the Quota System? Established in 1972, the quota system initially reserved 56% of government jobs for various groups, including freedom fighters’ families, women, underdeveloped districts, indigenous communities, and the disabled. The students want to abolish all quotas except those for indigenous people and the disabled.
What Led to the Violence? Clashes erupted between protesters and the student wing of Hasina’s Awami League party. Police used rubber bullets, sound grenades, and tear gas to disperse the crowds, who blocked major roads and railway tracks.
Students’ Concerns Students fear the 30% quota favors Awami League supporters and limits merit-based job opportunities. They also face high unemployment and a stagnant economy, with inflation around 10% and shrinking dollar reserves.
Hasina’s Response Prime Minister Hasina, facing her first major challenge since her re-election, has condemned the violence and urged patience until the Supreme Court rules on the matter.
