DHAKA: Bangladesh’s Supreme Court has annulled most of the quotas on government jobs, a move that has sparked widespread student-led protests resulting in the deaths of at least 114 people. The court’s Appellate Division dismissed a lower court order that had reinstated the quotas, now directing that 93% of government jobs be open to merit-based candidates, according to local media reports.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government had abolished the quota system in 2018. However, the lower court’s reinstatement of the quotas last month ignited massive protests and a subsequent government crackdown. The government’s attempt to reimpose the quotas was met with fierce opposition from students, leading to violent clashes with security forces.
As the nation awaited the Supreme Court’s decision, the government extended a curfew in anticipation of potential unrest. The curfew, initially set to end at 3 p.m. (0900 GMT), was continued for an indefinite period following a brief two-hour window for citizens to gather essential supplies. Soldiers patrolled the streets of Dhaka, the epicenter of the demonstrations.
In an effort to curb the protests, authorities suspended internet and text messaging services across Bangladesh from Thursday, effectively cutting off communication and attempting to enforce a ban on public gatherings. Despite these measures, protesters continued to defy the restrictions, leading to further confrontations with police.
The Supreme Court’s ruling to open 93% of government jobs to merit-based selection represents a significant shift in policy, aimed at addressing the demands of the protesting students. However, it remains unclear how the protesters will respond to the decision.
As the country grapples with the aftermath of the protests and the court ruling, the extended curfew and ongoing suspension of communication services underscore the government’s efforts to maintain control and prevent further unrest. The situation remains tense as the nation awaits further developments.
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