02/08/2024
The Quota System in Bangladesh was introduced in 1972 and has had movements demanding the cancellation of this system on and off. In 2018, government jobs had a 56% quota of which 30% were reserved for descendants of freedom fighters and mass campaigns had eventually cancelled the entire quota system. However, in 2024, Bangladeshi High Court’s verdict on June 5th reinstated the quota system in government jobs, and was followed by peaceful rallies yet met with violence.
Although the quota has been reformed to 5% for descendants of freedom fighters and 2% for members of ethnic minorities, transgender and disabled people, this is no longer about the quota movement.
We seek justice for all the innocent students and lives lost, for all those who were killed, injured and detained through mass arrests and detentions. We condemn the violation of rights and such acts of mass violence from authorities that are there to protect us.
Attacks on protestors were conducted using lethal and non-lethal weapons such as machetes to tear gas to bullets, leaving students fatally injured and many dead. As of 30th July, Prothom Alo has confirmed 212 people have died in protest and follow-up clashes centring on the quota reform movement. Out of the analysis of 175 deaths, political involvement were found of only six of the 175 people. Innocent children as young as 6, bystanders, and non-protesting civilians have also been killed. The total death is estimated to go up as many injured are still in critical conditions.
Our volunteers are actively supporting and participating in seeking justice in their personal capacities.
Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services (BLAST)’s helpline is open from 9 AM to 5 PM for free legal advice. Contact Number: 01715220220
Due to our organisation being inactive since the end of 2022, we would highly advise our followers to follow news agencies such as and organisations such as .storyofself for updates.
