Bangladesh’s Supreme Court has reduced the controversial quota system for government job applicants, limiting the veterans’ quota to 5% and allocating 93% of jobs based on merit. This decision comes after days of nationwide unrest and deadly clashes between police and student protesters demanding an end to the quota system. The protests, which began due to frustrations over job shortages, have been the most serious challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government since her re-election in January.
The protests have turned deadly, with over 100 people reported killed and numerous injuries. Despite the court ruling, it is unclear whether the protesting students are satisfied, as communication lines have been shut down. The government has not issued an immediate response to the decision.
The protests have led to universities being closed, the internet being shut off, and a ban on public gatherings. The government has declared Sunday and Monday as public holidays, with only emergency services allowed to operate. The main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, has supported the protests, calling for a merit-based system to replace the quota and for university officials to step down.
The government, led by Hasina, has defended the quota system, citing the contributions of veterans in the war of independence. The opposition parties have denied accusations of using the protests for political gains and have accused each other of fueling political chaos. Overall, the protests highlight the ongoing political tensions in Bangladesh.
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