The Quota Reform Protest In Bangladesh

In 2024, Our Country witnessed a massive turbulence. It all started with students going against the reinstatement of government job quotas. Later on every sector of people joined the movement and fought with their life to change the quota system. They demanded the reform into merit based recruitments but slowly it came to a climax of resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

 

Beginning of the Quota System :

The quota system in Bangladesh civil service was initially established to provide opportunities for freedom fighters, women, ethnic minority groups, people w disabilities. By 2018 approximately 56% of government jobs were reserved under this system. Critics did argue over the fact that such a high percentage compromised merit listed or fairness in public sector recruitment

 

The 2018 Quota Reform Movement:

In 2018, A huge number of student involved in the protest demanding for reduction in the Quota system. The government even responded by issuing a circular that reduced reserved quotas for government jobs from 56% to 35% but later on The Supreme Court invalidate the circular because of ongoing tensions and dissatisfaction a month the students and job seekers

Renewed protest in 2024:

In June 2024, the High court restored the 30% quota for the family of freedom fighters and it led student protest across the country and the movement got spreader among the students to the teachers the citizens everyone against discrimination coalition and quickly got momentum. Protesters demanded the reinstatement of a merit based recruitment system.

 

Government Response:

The governments response to the protests was marked by a heavy-handed approach. The security forces from every branch of national security system like RAB BSF used weapons on students. Even a dramatic internet shutdown imposed from July 18 to more few days. The death of student leader Abu Syed on July 16 became a significant point, symbolizing resistance against oppressing government.