Supreme Court Overturns Quota System Amid Protests in Bangladesh
In a landmark ruling, Bangladesh's Supreme Court has abolished the controversial quota system for government jobs, a decision that comes in the wake of widespread student-led protests and violent clashes that have resulted in over 100 deaths. The court's decision, announced on Sunday, overturns a previous ruling that reinstated quotas, which reserved 30% of public service positions for veterans and their families from the 1971 war of independence.
The Supreme Court's ruling indicates that 93% of government jobs will now be available based on merit, a move welcomed by student activists who have long argued that the quota system is unfair, especially during a time of economic hardship. The protests, initially peaceful and organized via social media, escalated into violence, with accusations of pro-government groups attacking demonstrators and police employing rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse crowds.
The unrest has led to thousands of injuries and at least 114 reported fatalities, with the government imposing a communications blackout to suppress the protests. Many political opposition leaders and student activists have been arrested, raising concerns about the government's response to dissent. The Supreme Court has urged students to return to their studies, but it remains uncertain whether this ruling will quell the ongoing protests against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government, which has been in power since 2009.
- The Supreme Court's decision to maintain a small percentage of job quotas—5% for the children of war veterans and 2% for other categories—has not fully satisfied all factions. Many students and activists continue to express their dissatisfaction, arguing that any form of quota undermines the principles of equal opportunity and meritocracy. The protests have not only targeted the quota system but have also evolved into a broader movement against the ruling Awami League party, with calls for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign. In the wake of the ruling, the country remains under an indefinite curfew, with authorities enforcing strict measures against gatherings. The situation continues to develop, and the potential for further unrest looms as the government grapples with both internal dissent and public outcry.
