Initially, the protests began due to the unpopular job quota system set by the government. This system allocated 56% of public sector jobs to specific groups like children of freedom fighters, women, ethnic minorities, and individuals with disabilities. The protestors insisted on reducing this quota to 10%, claiming it was unjust and discriminatory.
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Reinstatement of 30% Freedom Fighters' Quota
Reinstatement of 30% Freedom Fighters' Quota
In June 2024, the High Court of Bangladesh brought back a 30% quota for descendants of freedom fighters. The government had removed this system in 2018 under public pressure. The move sparked protests as students and job seekers felt the quota was unfair, benefiting only a minority.
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Controversial Statement by PM Hasina
Controversial Statement by PM Hasina
On July 14th, PM Hasina sparked controversy with her remarks on the reservation policy. She stated, “If the grandchildren of freedom fighters miss out on quotas, the grandchildren of razakars will benefit from them.” The term “razakar” refers to those who opposed Bangladesh’s freedom fighters. This statement led to a peaceful protest turning violent, as citizens were angered by the PM’s comments.
4
Infiltration of Anti-Social Elements
Infiltration of Anti-Social Elements
As the protests grew stronger, some troublemakers joined the student movement, causing the protests to become more aggressive. This led the government to close colleges and hostels, which only made the public more upset and frustrated.
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Anger Over Corruption and Inflation
Anger Over Corruption and Inflation
The demonstrations against the employment quota system grew to encompass bigger problems like corruption and rising prices. People believed that the government wasn’t doing enough to tackle these issues. Instead, they seemed more interested in silencing public opinion by controlling social media and other methods.
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Opposition Party Involvement
Opposition Party Involvement
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, which have not been very influential in Bangladeshi politics, found a chance to take on the government during the job quota dispute. They managed to make use of the student demonstrations, making them more forceful and intense. This eventually pushed Hasina to step down and leave the country.
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