Student demonstrators set a 48-hour deadline for new demands as Bangladesh grapples with curfews, internet disruptions, and ongoing tensions

DHAKA – Bangladesh remains tense but calm amid curfews and ongoing telecom disruptions after the Supreme Court annulled certain controversial job quotas. Student protesters have set a 48-hour deadline for the government to address their new demands, vowing to continue their demonstrations until these are met.

The situation follows a period of intense clashes between student protesters and security forces, which resulted in the deaths of at least 147 people. These clashes began after the High Court last month reinstated job quotas that had been removed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in 2018. On Sunday, however, the Supreme Court decreed that 93% of government jobs should be based on merit, replacing the previous system that reserved 56% of jobs for specific groups including families of freedom fighters, women, and individuals from underdeveloped areas.

A Dhaka University student, speaking anonymously, stated, “We will continue our protests until the government publishes the verdict in the gazette.” The students have also demanded the release of detained protest leaders, the lifting of the curfew, and the reopening of universities that have been closed since Wednesday.

The capital appeared calm on Monday, with no reports of new violence or protests. Media sources indicated that the curfew would be relaxed for three hours in the afternoon, extended from the previous two hours, allowing residents to purchase essential items. Army tanks and armed security patrols were visible throughout Dhaka, directing the few motorists on the streets.

Supply disruptions have caused department stores to run low on stock, while internet service suspensions have impacted travel plans and essential services. Migrant workers were seen collecting airline tickets booked online at an airline office on Sunday, and others were seen paying electricity bills in person at a power distribution company office in Dhaka’s Tejgaon area.

The southern port of Chittagong also experienced tightened security on Monday due to the internet disruptions affecting its operations. Thousands were injured in last week’s protests as security forces used tear gas, rubber bullets, and sound grenades to disperse demonstrators.

Experts attribute the unrest to stagnant job growth in the private sector and high youth unemployment rates, which have made government jobs, with their regular wage hikes and other benefits, highly desirable. Prime Minister Hasina, serving her fourth consecutive term, has faced accusations of authoritarianism, human rights violations, and suppressing free speech and dissent—charges that her government denies.

Analysis:

Political Perspective: The ongoing student protests in Bangladesh highlight the deep-rooted political challenges facing Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration. The Supreme Court’s decision to revise job quotas underscores the tension between the judiciary and the executive branch. This scenario may influence upcoming elections, as the government’s handling of the protests and its response to the students’ demands will be closely scrutinized by the public and political opponents.

Social Perspective: Socially, the protests reflect the frustration of Bangladesh’s youth, who face limited job prospects and are disillusioned by perceived government inaction. The call for the publication of the court’s verdict in the official gazette and the release of detained leaders points to a broader demand for transparency and accountability. The closure of universities and the imposition of curfews also highlight the impact on students’ education and daily lives, emphasizing the need for a more constructive dialogue between the government and the youth.

Racial Perspective: Although the protests are primarily driven by economic and political factors, they also bring to light issues of inclusion and equity. The previous quota system aimed to support marginalized groups such as families of freedom fighters, women, and individuals from underdeveloped areas. The Supreme Court’s merit-based allocation decision raises questions about how these groups will be affected and whether new measures will be implemented to ensure their continued support.

Gender Perspective: The protests and the subsequent Supreme Court ruling have significant implications for gender equality in Bangladesh. The reduction of quotas for women in government jobs may affect gender representation in the public sector. It is crucial for the government to address these concerns and consider policies that promote gender equity, ensuring that women continue to have access to opportunities in government employment.

Economic Perspective: Economically, the protests and the Supreme Court’s decision are indicative of broader issues in Bangladesh’s labor market. The reliance on government jobs due to stagnant private sector growth and high youth unemployment highlights the need for comprehensive economic reforms. Improving the private sector and creating more job opportunities for young people could alleviate some of the pressures driving the protests. Additionally, the economic disruptions caused by curfews and internet suspensions underscore the importance of stability and effective governance in maintaining economic activity and public confidence.