Bangladesh Extends Curfew Amid Student Protests Over Job Quotas
Bangladesh extends a curfew amid violent protests, the debate over job quotas reaches a boiling point. Students demand change, fueled by high unemployment and the reinstatement of quotas, setting the stage for a pivotal Supreme Court decisionrfew Extended in Dhaka Due to Protests
Bangladesh has extended a curfew in the capital city of Dhaka in an effort to control violent student-led protests that have resulted in the deaths of at least 114 people. The protests were sparked by controversy over government job quotas, and the country is now awaiting a crucial Supreme Court hearing on the matter.
Military Patrols and Communication Shutdowns
Soldiers have been deployed on the streets of Dhaka, where protests have turned into clashes between demonstrators and security forces. To curb the unrest, internet and text message services have been suspended since Thursday, isolating the nation as authorities attempt to enforce a ban on public gatherings.
Curfew Details and Public Response
The curfew, initially imposed on Friday night, has been extended until 3 p.m. (0900 GMT) on Sunday, following the Supreme Court hearing.
Local media reports indicate that the curfew will continue for an “uncertain time,” with a brief two-hour window allowing people to gather supplies. Additionally, universities and colleges have been closed since Wednesday.
The Controversial Job Quotas
The unrest began after students expressed anger over government job quotas that reserve 30% of positions for the families of those who fought for Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan. Although Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government abolished the quota system in 2018, a court reinstated it last month, leading to widespread discontent.
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Supreme Court Involvement
The Supreme Court had previously suspended the court’s decision to reinstate the quotas after a government appeal. A hearing, originally scheduled for August 7, has been moved to Sunday. This decision comes amid the largest demonstrations since Prime Minister Hasina’s recent re-election.
High Unemployment Rates Among Youth
The protests are also fueled by high unemployment rates among young people, who represent nearly 20% of Bangladesh’s population. The lack of job opportunities has intensified frustrations and led to increased support for the demonstrations.
U.S. Travel Advisory
In response to the ongoing unrest, the U.S. State Department has raised its travel advisory for Bangladesh to level four, strongly advising American citizens against traveling to the South Asian country.
Bangladesh faces unrest as students protest job quotas, prompting a curfew and a crucial Supreme Court hearing source: Reuters
