The quota reforms movement highlights the urgent need for a more equitable and just society. By addressing structural inequalities, promoting unity, and ensuring transparent governance, the nation can move towards an inclusive future, writes Sazzad Siddiqui
THE current student movement in Bangladesh highlights the nation鈥檚 ongoing struggles with inequality, poor governance and political manipulation. The events have resulted in significant casualties, raising concerns about the country鈥檚 democratic fabric and the government鈥檚 handling of dissent. The movement and reform efforts have broader implications for Bangladesh鈥檚 socio-political landscape. Like in many other countries, the quota system in Bangladesh has been designed to ensure representation for marginalised groups in government jobs and educational institutions. However, it has been a contentious issue for years.
In 2018, the government made drastic changes on a whim in the quota system, eliminating it in favour of a completely merit-based approach, specifically for appointing civil servants for Grade 9 to 13. This change was in response to a quota reform movement that occurred earlier that year. However, six years later in June 2024, the High Court Division stayed that administrative order in response to a writ petition filed by the freedom fighters鈥� descendants, which raised serious concerns and subsequently sparked significant unrest across the country, particularly in universities. In July 16鈥�22, the government鈥檚 use of disproportionate lethal force, including airstrikes and armed interventions to control the unrest, was unprecedented in Bangladesh鈥檚 history. As of July 31, the death toll exceeded 200, with indiscriminate arrests of students, 87 per cent of whom have no political affiliation.
On July 21, under security-threatening circumstances, the Appellate Division stayed the High Court鈥檚 judgment and prescribed a new quota system with 93 per cent open to merit-based selection and 7 per cent reserved for quota. Despite having the opportunity to make the judgement more inclusive, the government strictly adhered to this decision and its observations, issuing a government circular on July 23 mandating its implementation across all government jobs, for Grade 9鈥�20. This compromise is likely to create new forms of inequality and discrimination, particularly for women and those in disadvantaged geographical areas who genuinely deserve quotas for opportunities as per the constitution.
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Gov鈥檚 response and public perception
A PEACEFUL, non-violent demonstration turned violent, allegedly because of the government鈥檚 response. Allegations have emerged that the ruling party Awami League, using loyalist groups such as the Chhatra League and the law enforcement units, used excessive force to suppress dissent. Initially, a statement by the prime minister agitated student movements which was allegedly perceived as derogatory. Additionally, a provocative statement by Obaidul Quader, the secretary general of the Awami League, incited Chhatra League activists to physically attack student protesters on the University of Dhaka campus.
The attacks, particularly on female students, have faced heavy criticism both domestically and internationally and have spread across the country. This approach has resulted in a tragic loss of life and created an atmosphere of fear and mistrust among the public. Authorities have as usual blamed opposition parties, particularly the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and the association of Jamaat-Shibir activists, for inciting violence and vandalism. However, the conflict between the protesters鈥� eight- or nine-point demands remains unresolved, exacerbated by minimal internet coverage and a curfew.
The quota reforms movement is part of a broader struggle against structural inequality and embedded injustice. Students living in dormitories often endure sub-human conditions, which has fuelled their grievances and contributed to the momentum of the quota movement. Historical parallels can be drawn with other societies where questioning the status quo led to persecution. Figures such as Copernicus, Galileo, Socrates and Gramsci faced severe repercussions for challenging prevailing norms
Similarly, the quota reformists in Bangladesh faced brutal state repression for advocating a more equitable system. The government鈥檚 reluctance at addressing the deprivation and inequality has fuelled the protests. Instead of examining the legitimacy of these claims, the authorities have blamed opposition parties and used state violence to quell the protest. This approach is widely criticised worldwide as counterproductive and deepens societal divisions.
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Moving forward: unity and reforms
BLAMING opposition parties and dividing society have never been conditions for a sustainable solution; they, rather, only serve to polarise the nation. Even after 53 years of independence, the legacy of the 1971 liberation war continues to shape political discourse in Bangladesh, often used to justify exclusionary practices. To build a more inclusive and cohesive society, Bangladesh must focus on uniting its people. This requires acknowledging and addressing legitimate grievances, ensuring fair representation, and fostering a political culture that prioritise dialogues over repression. The following recommendations could help create a more conducive educational environment and contribute to national development:
The cessation of student-teacher politics: Students are deeply traumatised across educational institutions. Before resuming classes, these shell-shocked students need effective peace counselling. Additionally, reintegrating persecuted Chhatra League activists will be a significant challenge as the risk of further confrontations remains a serious concern. To address this, prohibiting political activities by students and teachers that are mainly linked to national politics can help reduce the influence of partisan politics in universities and create a more neutral environment for learning and intellectual discourse.
Making transparent policies: Implementing policies based on comprehensive data and inclusive consultations with all relevant stakeholders can ensure reforms are grounded and address the needs of all communities.
Strengthening democratic values: Restoring electoral democracy and reinforcing the independence of democratic institutions, including the judiciary and the media, are inevitable to ensure that they can operate without government interference. This step is crucial for maintaining checks and balances in the system.
Promoting peace education: As a long-run policy intervention, investing in peace education at all levels of educational institutions will foster a sense of national unity and democratic values among citizens. This can help top bridge societal divides with mutual respect and promote a more informed and engaged populace.
Addressing root causes of violent conflicts: Tackling the root causes of inequality and perceived deprivation or injustice through targeted social and economic policies will improve access to quality education and employment opportunities for graduates in general, including marginalised communities.
In conclusion, the current quota reform movement highlights the urgent need for a more equitable and just society. By addressing structural inequalities, promoting unity, and ensuring transparent governance, Bangladesh can move towards a brighter and more inclusive future. If these issues are not addressed, progress will remain elusive.
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Dr Sazzad Siddiqui an associate professor of peace and conflict studies in the University of Dhaka.