More than 100 students were injured in clashes across Bangladesh on Monday, as protesters demanded an end to the quota system for government jobs. The demonstrations mark a significant challenge for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who recently won a fourth consecutive term despite boycotting by the main opposition.
Anti-quota protesters and members of Hasina’s Awami League student wing engaged in violent clashes, throwing rocks and using sticks and iron rods at universities nationwide, including Dhaka.
Despite several injuries, the protesters vowed to continue their marches and rallies, seeking to pressure the government to meet their demands. The protests were sparked by a court order to restore job quotas for the descendants of freedom fighters, which was later suspended but still caused unrest.
Hasina’s refusal to address the students’ demands further fueled the protests, with her labeling quota opponents as ‘Razakar’, leading to a mass student mobilization in Dhaka. Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud warned against destabilizing the situation, emphasizing the government’s commitment to maintaining stability.
Published 15 July 2024, 20:42 IST