17.07.2024 10:20
Students in Bangladesh are protesting against the quota system that prioritizes jobs for the families of veterans of the 1971 War of Independence. The protests, which have spread nationwide and continued for a second day, saw tens of thousands of students take to the streets, blocking roads and railways. As a result of the security forces' harsh measures, at least six people have lost their lives and hundreds have been injured. The students claim that pro-government student groups have attacked peaceful demonstrations.
Students in Bangladesh are protesting against the quota system implemented in public sector jobs. This system gives priority to the families of 1971 Independence War veterans. Protesters are demanding the removal of this system due to high unemployment rates.
The protests continued on the second day and spread across the country. Tens of thousands of students took to the streets, blocking main roads and railways.
Security forces took harsh measures to suppress the demonstrations. Police used tear gas and rubber bullets. As a result of the clashes, at least six people lost their lives and hundreds were injured.
The deaths occurred in the cities of Rangpur, Chittagong, and Dhaka. Hospital officials reported that some of the deaths were due to gunshot wounds.
The government deployed paramilitary forces to bring the situation under control. Bangladesh Border Guards were stationed in five major cities.
Students claim that pro-government student groups attacked peaceful protests. Local media also reported that the police and the ruling party's student wing attacked the protesters.
These protests draw attention as the first major demonstrations against the government since Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's fourth election victory in January.