Sarjis Alam, one of the key coordinators of quota reformists under the banner of Anti-Discriminatory Student Movement, yesterday said that it is positive to see the recent steps of the government to resolve the quota system in civil service.
He told Dhaka Tribune: “We find this a positive step by the authorities as the Appellate Division giving a quick verdict and the Public Administration Ministry issuing a circular. We can sit down the government once our new four-point demand is met.”
Meanwhile, during a press briefing yesterday, Nahid Islam, another key coordinator of the movement, binned yesterday’s circular saying that the government did not hold any discussion before issuing the circular.
“We urge for an independent commission so that no more questions arise or any unwanted situation creates over this quota issue in future. The government should have discussed with the students and other stakeholders beforehand. We won’t accept the circular as a final resolution,” he said.
Nahid said the protesters are still seeking a favourable atmosphere for holding a discussion that includes both students and other stakeholders.
He said the movement has nothing to do with the circular now. “Our movement will continue until we reach a clear resolution and ensure justice for all the causalities.”
Nahid continued: “The authorities made controversial statements against a peaceful movement of the students. Later, the government instigated Chhatra league, Jubo League and law enforcers to create a chaotic situation.
“It is clear that the unrestful situation was created as a result of the irresponsible and repressive acts of the government. The government has to take the responsibility for this situation. After failing to protect public lives, the government is now trying to blame the students and other political parties to avoid the responsibility,” he added.
At the briefing, Sarjis said: “We announced four new demands two days ago. If those demands are not met, there is no chance of discussion with the other 8-point demand with the government. We gave a 48-hour ultimatum but we are still awaiting a response.”
The four demands are restoration of internet, withdrawal of curfew, removal of law enforcement from the campus to create a situation to reopen the university halls for the students, and ensuring security of the coordinators of the movement.
“We are once again giving our 48-hour ultimatum,” Sarjis declared.
Meanwhile, the father of Asif Mahmud, a coordinator of the movement, was present at the press briefing. He claimed Asif Mahmud have been abducted. Additionally, the agitators alleged that another protester named Rifat Rashid has been missing for the last two days.
Another coordinator Hasnat Abdullah said: “We urge the government to bring Chhatra League, Jubo League cadres and law enforcers under justice who killed the students.
“Our movement began from Central Library of Dhaka University and we are determined to end it there with the students,” Hasnat added.
Desk Nafiu
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