Quota Movement 2024 in Bangladesh

  

Quota Movement 2024 in Bangladesh

The 2024 quota reform movement in Bangladesh has been a significant and tumultuous event. Initially, the protests began as a student-led movement against a reinstated quota system that allocated 30% of public sector jobs to descendants of freedom fighters, among other groups. This quota system was seen as limiting opportunities based on merit, leading to widespread dissatisfaction among students and the general public.

As the movement gained momentum, it expanded beyond the original issue of quotas to include broader criticisms of the government's authoritarian tendencies and handling of the country's economic and political situation. The protests quickly escalated, resulting in violent clashes between demonstrators, police, and ruling party affiliates. Tragically, over 200 people have been reported dead, with thousands more injured and arrested. The government responded with a nationwide curfew, an internet blackout, and the deployment of the military to restore order.

The situation has drawn criticism for the government's heavy-handed response, including accusations of human rights violations. The Supreme Court has since ruled to reduce the quota to 7%, with the rest based on merit, but the protesters demand further accountability and reforms. The movement continues to evolve, reflecting broader frustrations with the current state of governance in Bangladesh.

The demands of the 2024 quota reform movement in Bangladesh have evolved and expanded over time. Initially focused on the reduction or elimination of the quota system in public sector job recruitment, the movement's demands now include:

1. **Abolition of the Quota System**: The primary demand was to end the quotas that reserved a significant percentage of public-sector jobs for specific groups, including descendants of freedom fighters and others. The protesters argued for a merit-based recruitment system.

2. **Accountability for Violence**: Protesters demanded accountability for the violence and deaths during the protests. They specifically called for the resignation of Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, whom they held responsible for the violence.

3. **Apology from the Prime Minister**: An apology from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for the deaths and injuries caused during the protests was another key demand..

4. **Justice and Reforms**: The movement also seeks broader reforms, including justice for the victims of violence, the resignation of implicated officials, and changes to ensure better governance and protection of democratic rights.

5. **Release of Detained Protesters**: Protesters have also demanded the release of those detained during the protests and an end to the harassment and intimidation of student leaders.

These demands reflect a deeper dissatisfaction with the government and its policies, turning the movement into a broader call for political and social change in Bangladesh.