Students from seven colleges affiliated with Dhaka University have initiated the Bangla Blockade program to demand the abolition of quotas in all grades of government jobs and all types of competitive examinations.
Students began gathering on the Dhaka College campus around 10am on Wednesday. Later, under the banner of the “Anti-Discrimination Student Movement,” over 200 students marched to the Science Laboratory junction, chanting anti-quota slogans.
The protesters marched from Dhaka College to the Science Laboratory intersection, where they took a stand, halting traffic on Mirpur Road.
Anti-quota protesters gather at Dhaka UniversityNazmul Hossain, a student of Dhaka College and one of the protestors, said: "We want a logical reform of the quota system. One student should not miss out on placement despite having higher marks, while another gets placement based on quota despite having lower marks. The recruitment process should be completely merit-based, ensuring that only the most qualified candidates get the job.”
He added that the movement will continue unless there is a verdict in favour of the students regarding the quota system. "Students from all over the country will stand on the road today (Wednesday) against injustice and discrimination. We expect justice from the concerned parties regarding the quota," he said.
Debate intensifies over constitutional basis of Bangladesh’s quota systemMeanwhile, the hearing of two petitions seeking the suspension of the High Court's ruling declaring the cancellation of the freedom fighter quota system in the first and second class of government jobs is scheduled for 11:30am on Wednesday.
In response to the attorney general's application, a five-judge appellate bench headed by Chief Justice Obaidul Hasan set the time at 9:55am on Wednesday.
