A return to normalcy

It is good to see that protests against the existing quota system have been called off following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s address to parliament on Wednesday. Let us hope that the matter can now be resolved swiftly and to the satisfaction of all concerned parties. But it is regrettable that it had to come to such a point in the first place, especially after the government had already made a commitment to address the issue. Peaceful protests are of course the life-blood of a functioning and healthy democracy, and any kind of engagement with public issues by the young should be commended and encouraged. Throughout history, protests mobilized by ordinary citizens have been the catalyst for necessary and meaningful change, and the PM has done the right thing in listening to the voice of the people and pledging to resolve the matter. That said, the excesses of some of the protesters, that included violence and vandalism, with the attack on the Dhaka University vice chancellor’s house being an especially shocking episode, cannot be condoned or excused. Similarly, the point must be made that it would be preferable to demonstrate in such a way that common men and women are not inconvenienced or have to suffer. It is to be hoped that grievances with the government can and will be settled by coming to the table and reaching a solution in an amicable and cooperative manner. Of course, the authorities are not entirely without blame in this matter, and we equally condemn the excesses of law enforcement during the past few days of protests as well. In short, we are glad that life has returned to normal, and we hope and trust that future protests will be done peacefully and within the law. In the end mutually respectful dialogue is always the best solution to any problems or differences.