Bangladesh has been facing a challenging situation as the country remains without internet for the fifth consecutive day. The government has declared a public holiday and maintained tight control despite relative calm following a court order that reduced a controversial system for allocating government jobs. The system, which reserved 30% of government jobs for relatives of veterans who fought in Bangladesh's war of independence in 1971, sparked violent protests.
Authorities imposed a curfew with a shoot-on-sight order, and military personnel were seen patrolling the capital and other areas. Clashes between police and student protesters demanding an end to the quota system resulted in more than a hundred deaths, according to local newspapers.
The Supreme Court's recent decision to reduce the veterans' quota to 5% has brought some respite, with 93% of civil service jobs now being merit-based. The remaining 2% is reserved for members of ethnic minorities, transgender individuals, and disabled people.
Student protesters have called for the restoration of internet services and the withdrawal of security officials from universities. They have also demanded the reopening of student dormitories and a return to normalcy within two days. Failure to meet these demands could lead to continued protests, according to student organizers.
The US Embassy in Dhaka has described the situation as 'extremely volatile' and 'unpredictable,' advising Americans to exercise caution and avoid large crowds. The ongoing protests represent a significant challenge to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government, which has faced criticism over the quota system and its handling of the demonstrations.
The main opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, has supported the protests and plans to organize its own demonstrations. The political landscape in Bangladesh remains tense, with accusations of fueling chaos and violence exchanged between the ruling Awami League and the opposition parties.
