Protests in Bangladesh over government-imposed job quotas have escalated into violence, leading to the torching of the Bangladesh Television (BTV) headquarters and a nationwide internet shutdown. The unrest, fueled by student anger over the quota system, has claimed the lives of 16 people in recent days.
On Thursday, a mob of protesters stormed the BTV building, setting fire to at least 60 vehicles and an office building. According to an official at the station, the protesters first attacked a police post in Rampura after police opened fire on them. When police sought refuge at the BTV office, they were pursued by the protesters, who then unleashed chaos at the broadcaster’s headquarters.
The government responded by ordering a nationwide shutdown of the mobile internet network, citing security concerns. “Yes, we have,” said Zunaid Ahmed Palak, the country’s junior telecommunications minister, confirming the measure. “It is necessary to ensure the security of citizens.”
The protests were sparked by the government’s decision to introduce public sector job quotas, a system that has been in place for decades. The quota system reserves a certain percentage of jobs for specific groups, including women, residents of less developed districts, and children of freedom fighters who fought in the 1971 liberation war against Pakistan.
While the government initially reduced the quota scheme following protests in 2018, the High Court ruled last month that this reduction was unlawful and ordered the government to reinstate the quota for children of freedom fighters. This ruling reignited the protests, leading to the current wave of unrest.
In response to the escalating violence, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina vowed to punish those responsible for the deaths and destruction. “I firmly declare that those who carried out murders, looting and violence – whoever they are – I will make sure they will be given the appropriate punishment,” she said.
The situation in Bangladesh remains tense as protesters continue to demand a complete overhaul of the quota system, while the government faces increasing pressure to address the concerns of the students and restore order.
