Dhaka: Bangladesh has been engulfed in turmoil as protests against the government’s job quota system intensify. The clashes, which began late last month, have escalated into a nationwide crisis, resulting in fatalities and injuries.
The Violent Incidents:
- Death Toll: On Thursday, 18 people lost their lives during the violent clashes. The toll has now risen to 25 over the past two days, with most of the victims being students.
- Injuries: More than 2,500 people sustained injuries during the unrest.
Student Protests:
- Dhaka University: Tensions flared when student activists at Dhaka University clashed with police and counter-protesters backed by the ruling Awami League. At least 100 people were injured.
- Armed Clashes: Thousands of students armed with sticks and stones confronted police forces in Dhaka. Tear gas shells were fired at students who blocked the highway in Chittagong.
Disruptions and Shutdowns:
- Rail Services: In response to escalating violence, railway services to and from Dhaka were suspended on Thursday afternoon.
- Metro Rail: The metro rail service in the capital was also shut down.
- Internet Services: Mobile internet services were curtailed to control the protests.
- Bangladesh Television Building: Protesters laid siege to the government-owned Bangladesh Television building in Rampura, trapping around 1,200 employees, including journalists. The building’s front was vandalized, and several vehicles were set on fire.
Government Response:
- Border Guard Deployment: Border Guard Bangladesh soldiers have been deployed nationwide as the situation spirals out of control.
- Dialogue Offer: Law Minister Anisul Haque expressed the government’s willingness to engage in dialogue with the protesters.
- Demand for Change: Students demand an end to the 30% job reservation for families of veterans associated with the 1971 Liberation War. They argue that the current quota system is discriminatory and favoring political supporters.
- Indian Advisory: The Indian High Commission in Bangladesh issued an advisory, urging Indian citizens and students to avoid non-essential travel and minimize movement outside their residences.
Evacuation of Stranded Students:
- From Neighboring Countries: A total of 310 Indian, Nepali, and Bhutanese students stranded in Bangladesh due to the violence have safely crossed into India through the Dawki Integrated Check Post. Among them are 202 Indians, 101 Nepalese, and seven Bhutanese citizens.
- Assam’s Assurance: The Assam government is closely coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs to ensure the safety of its citizens residing in Bangladesh.
The situation remains tense, with both sides seeking a resolution. As the protests continue, the nation grapples with the delicate balance between historical respect and the need for a merit-based system in government jobs.
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