Significant Decision On Sunday, Bangladesh’s Supreme Court made a significant decision to reduce the controversial quota system for government job applicants. This change comes as a partial victory for student protesters amidst deadly clashes that have resulted in over 150 deaths.
Merit-Based Job Allocation The Supreme Court decreed that 93% of government jobs will now be allocated based on merit, with the remaining 7% reserved for relatives of veterans from Bangladesh’s 1971 war of independence and other special categories. Previously, 30% of these jobs were reserved for the relatives of war veterans.
Controversial Quota System Student protesters, frustrated by the lack of job opportunities, have been demanding an end to the quota system that favors relatives of 1971 war veterans. This system, which was halted in 2018 following mass protests, was reinstated by the high court in June this year, sparking new demonstrations.
Political Implications The protests present a significant challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government during her fourth term. Critics argue that the quota system is discriminatory and primarily benefits supporters of Hasina’s Awami League party, advocating for a merit-based system instead. Prime Minister Hasina defends the quota system, highlighting the contributions of veterans in the war against Pakistan. The main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), supports the protests but denies involvement in the associated violence, countering claims that they are using the protests for political leverage.
Escalating Unrest The ongoing unrest has led to university closures, an internet shutdown, and stay-at-home orders. Soldiers are patrolling cities, and a nationwide internet blackout since Thursday has restricted the flow of information.
Student Exodus In recent updates, the Ministry of External Affairs of India reported that over 4,500 Indian students have returned from the violence-hit areas of Bangladesh, along with 500 Nepalese, 38 Bhutanese, and 1 Maldivian student. The High Commission is arranging security escorts for safe travel to border points.
Trade Disruptions Meanwhile, trade between India and Bangladesh via land ports came to a halt on Sunday due to the ongoing student protests, stopping the movement of cargo trucks.
