Bangladesh Braces for Turmoil: Government Opens Dialogue Amid Student Protests

The Bangladesh government expressed readiness to hold talks with students protesting the job quota system after fresh violence erupted nationwide. Authorities deployed Border Guard personnel to maintain order. Law Minister Anisul Huq and Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury were tasked with dialogue, while Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called for an early Supreme Court hearing on the quota issue.

On Thursday, the Bangladesh government announced its willingness to enter into discussions with students protesting against the job quota system, following fresh bouts of violence across the country. These protests culminated in nationwide unrest as demonstrators attempted to enforce a countrywide shutdown.

In response to escalating tensions, authorities have deployed Border Guard Bangladesh personnel to various locations, including the capital Dhaka, to maintain law and order, according to the official BSS news agency. At a press conference, Law Minister Anisul Huq revealed that the government has decided to engage in dialogue with the protesting students. The task has been assigned to him and Education Minister Mohibul Hassan Chowdhury.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has also intervened, instructing the law minister to expedite a Supreme Court hearing on the quota-related case. Additionally, a judicial probe committee, led by High Court Justice Khandaker Diliruzzaman, will investigate the violent incidents that have resulted in at least seven deaths, including four students.

(With inputs from agencies.)