The Bangladesh government expressed willingness to hold talks with students protesting the job quota system after fresh violence erupted during a nationwide shutdown. Authorities deployed Border Guard Bangladesh personnel across the country, including the capital, to maintain order.

Law Minister Anisul Huq announced at a press conference that he and Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury would lead the discussions. He said talks could begin as soon as the protesters agree.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina asked the law minister to expedite the hearing of a quota-related case pending with the Supreme Court. A judicial probe committee led by High Court Justice Khandaker Diliruzzaman will investigate the recent violence that claimed at least seven lives, including four students, upon approval from the chief justice.

The law minister urged protesters to end or suspend their demonstrations as the government is ready to engage in talks.

Fresh violence broke out as thousands of students attempted to enforce the shutdown, clashing with police and resulting in injuries. Riot police fired rubber bullets and tear gas, while pro-government students confronted protesters with bricks and bamboo sticks. Protesters laid siege to the Bangladesh Television building, damaging its front side and stranding staff inside.

The government has implemented extensive security measures, including deploying paramilitary and elite forces, but attendance in government offices and banks remained low due to limited transport. Bus services were cut off, and many local markets and shops were closed.

Protesters argue the current quota system, reserving 56% of government jobs, prevents meritorious students from being recruited. The quota system includes 30% for descendants of 1971 Liberation War freedom fighters, 10% for backward districts, 10% for women, 5% for ethnic minorities, and 1% for people with disabilities. Annually, around 3,000 government jobs are available for nearly 400,000 graduates.

Source: PTI

Also read: Bangladesh job quota protest: 6 killed, schools and colleges shut