The Dhaka University, in response to escalating violence and unrest stemming from nationwide protests demanding reforms in the government job quota system, announced an indefinite closure of the institution. The decision was made during an emergency meeting of the university's syndicate at the office of Vice Chancellor ASM Maksud Kamal. Pro-VC (Academic) Sitesh C Bachar conveyed that the closure was deemed necessary for the security of the students, instructing them to vacate their dormitories by 6 pm on Wednesday. Despite this decision, students expressed dissent, gathering at the VC's residence to protest the university's closure.
The protests, which have gripped major cities across Bangladesh, turned deadly with reports confirming at least six fatalities, including three students, and over 100 injuries. The demonstrations were triggered by dissatisfaction over the existing quota system for government jobs, despite a 2018 government circular that had previously abolished quotas being declared illegal by the High Court on June 5. Subsequently, the Supreme Court issued a status quo on this judgment on July 10, leading to renewed protests and clashes between demonstrators and security forces.
In response to the escalating violence, the University Grants Commission (UGC) directed all universities to suspend academic activities until further notice and evacuate residential halls. This directive prompted Dhaka University's syndicate to convene urgently, aligning with broader measures aimed at restoring peace amid the unrest.
The clashes underscored deep-seated frustrations with the quota system, which allocates 30% of government jobs to descendants of 1971 Liberation War veterans, alongside other specified categories. Protesters argued that this system disproportionately hindered merit-based employment opportunities for qualified candidates, leading to widespread disruption across urban centers and critical transportation routes.
As the situation unfolds, Bangladesh faces a critical juncture in managing socio-political discontent and restoring stability, with stakeholders calling for dialogue and measures to address underlying grievances fueling the ongoing protests.
