Protests in Bangladesh turn deadly as students defy ban on public rallies
Protesting students in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka have returned to the streets, defying a ban on public rallies after a day of clashes that left dozens dead. The deadliest day since the protests began saw at least 25 people killed on Thursday, with two more deaths reported on Friday, bringing the total to at least 33.
The protests are demanding the government scrap a job quota for the families of veterans of the country’s independence war in 1971. The shutdown of mobile internet and telephone lines has made it difficult to assess the exact toll, while bus and train services have been halted and schools and universities closed.
Despite the government’s attempts to quell the protests, the students have vowed to continue their “Complete Shutdown” and have blockaded roads across the city. Chanting “merit, merit” and demanding recruitment based on merit, the students argue that the quota system is discriminatory.
The main opposition Bangladesh National Party has also called for protests, with senior leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi Ahmed reportedly taken into custody. Efforts to end the protests with talks have so far failed, with students refusing to join discussions in the current circumstances.
The clashes have not been confined to Dhaka, with incidents reported in 26 districts. The state broadcaster BTV was occupied and set on fire by protesters, causing damage to the newsroom, studio, and canteen. Despite the unrest, the streets are relatively quiet, apart from a heavy police presence.
Authorities have banned rallies in the city to protect lives and property, but the protesters remain determined to continue their fight for justice and equality.
