Quota Protest: ‘Complete Shutdown’ on Thursday
University campuses across Bangladesh are set for a complete shutdown on Thursday, July 18th, according to an announcement made by the anti-quota student movement on Facebook. This comes after a second consecutive day of violent clashes between protesters, pro-government activists, and police.
The decision follows a tragic day on Tuesday that saw six people killed in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Rangpur during clashes. As a result, the government has ordered the indefinite closure of all educational institutions. Public and private universities have already begun shutting down and evacuating student dormitories.
Protesters are demanding reforms to the existing quota system, which allocates 56% of government jobs to specific groups. They are calling for immediate action on the issue, while the government maintains that the courts will determine the final resolution.
In a televised address on Tuesday evening, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged for patience until a final verdict is reached.
However, the student movement's Facebook post outlines a different approach. They are calling for a "complete shutdown" to protest against:
- Attacks by law enforcement officials
- Failure to bring the killers to justice
- The lack of safety on university campuses
- The government's inaction on their "one-point demand" (likely referring to reforms in the quota system)
The shutdown is expected to see only hospitals and emergency services remain operational. The student movement has urged students across the country to participate and ensure the program's success. Additionally, they have requested the support of the general public for their ongoing movement.