South Asians for Human Rights (SAHR), a regional network of human rights defenders, is alarmed by the suppression of nation-wide anti-quota protests that has been taking place in Bangladesh since 1 July 2024.
A total 56 percent of first and second class government jobs in Bangladesh entail quotas. 30 percent of the total are reserved for the descendants of ‘freedom fighters’. This quota has been widely criticised especially by the students, stating that the percentage is high for a quota and that it is allegedly used politically to recruit students affiliated with the ruling party. Following widespread protests in 2018, the Government of Bangladesh abolished all quotas with an executive order. However, on 5 June 2024, the High Court ordered the Government to reinstate the quota with the power of any adjustment they want to make.
Since 1 July 2024 the protests demanding reform of the present quota system have escalated in several university campuses. Members of the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL)—the ruling party’s student wing—have reportedly attacked protestors with sticks, bricks, crude bombs, and iron rods with impunity. Additionally, the police, instead of restraining the actions, have used shotgun pellets, teargas shells, and sound grenades against the protesters. SAHR learns that the police have shot unarmed protestors. So far 32 people are dead and over 1000 have been injured. Near total internet shutdown is reported across the country.
SAHR condemns the ruthless manner in which the Government suppressed the quota reform protest and firmly calls on the Government of Bangladesh to uphold the right to peaceful protest and freedom of assembly as enshrined in the Constitution of Bangladesh. It appeals to the protesters to restrain from further retaliation for the sake of curbing more destruction to life and property. SAHR further calls on the government to immediately restore internet services and stop the violation of people’s fundamental rights and freedoms. It also urges the government to immediately hold an impartial investigation into the brutal suppression of the country wide demonstrations ensuring accountability for the perpetrators. SAHR also calls on the Government of Bangladesh to initiate a broad consultation with the people to formulate a clear and effective quota system in Government jobs.
On behalf of the members of the South Asians for Human Rights,
Dr. Roshmi Goswami
Co-Chair person
Dr. P. Saravanamuttu
Bureau Member
19.07.2024