Sweet Watch: Dee for Drama: Deepanjana Pal on Deadpool & Wolverine, and Barzakh…see more…

Bangladesh’s student-led protests began as peaceful demonstrations against a controversial quota system in government jobs but have since morphed into violent nationwide unrest.

This exposes deep-seated tensions in Bangladeshi society and raises questions about the country’s governance.

The 30% quota for descendants of freedom fighters in government jobs, part of a broader system established in the aftermath of the country’s independence in 1971, has long been a contentious issue.

While intended to honour sacrifices made during the war of independence from Pakistan, it has increasingly been viewed by many as an anachronistic policy that undermines meritocracy and perpetuates inequality.

The students’ demands were straightforward: Abolish this quota and give jobs on merit.

They argued that the system failed to reflect the needs and aspirations of contemporary Bangladesh.

Their cause quickly gained traction, resonating with a broader segment of society frustrated by limited economic opportunities and perceived governmental nepotism.