Bangladesh has begun to ease its curfew after four days of nationwide protests against job quotas in government positions. The unrest, sparked by university students, resulted in the deaths of nearly 150 people. The protests highlighted the issue of unemployment in Bangladesh, particularly in the private sector, making government sector jobs with their regular wage hikes and perks especially prized.
Offices, businesses, and traffic are returning to normal, with the stock exchange and banks reopening. Internet access has also been largely restored, although social media remains blocked. The Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of the government’s appeal reduced job quotas to 7%, a move that eased some of the students’ concerns.
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Despite the easing of the curfew, the situation remains fragile. Protesting students have given the government a 48-hour ultimatum to fulfill four more demands, including the restoration of internet, withdrawal of police from campuses, and the reopening of universities. The government’s response to these demands will be crucial in determining the future political landscape.
The protests have exposed deep-seated tensions in Bangladesh regarding employment opportunities and government policies. The protests have given a boost to the opposition against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who won a fourth term in January. The government has blamed opposition groups for the violence and announced it will abide by the court’s decision. However, the unrest underscores the growing dissatisfaction with the government’s policies and the need for addressing the issue of unemployment.