Internet Shutdown Amid Violent Protests Over Government Jobs in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has seen severe protests over government job quotas, leading to an internet and mobile data shutdown on Friday. The protests have resulted in at least 28 deaths. Demonstrators argue against a reservation system for job placements, and clashes have escalated significantly with further actions planned.

In response to days of escalating protests over government job allocations, internet and mobile services were abruptly cut off in Bangladesh on Friday. The unrest, which local media reports say has resulted in at least 28 deaths over the past week, saw its most violent episodes on Thursday when protesters stormed the state-run Bangladesh Television station.

The protests erupted several weeks ago and escalated sharply this week as students called for a nationwide shutdown. Demonstrators are demanding the abolition of a quota system that reserves up to 30% of government jobs for the relatives of 1971 independence war veterans, arguing it favors Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s supporters. Hasina’s government, navigating its fourth term amid opposition boycotts of the January election, has blamed opposition elements for stoking the violence.

Reports from Dhaka confirmed that the internet clampdown disrupted social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp. Additional protests and mosque gatherings for funeral prayers are anticipated. The Supreme Court has intervened temporarily, suspending a High Court ruling that reinstated the controversial job quotas. An appeal hearing is set for Sunday, amid growing tensions and nationwide demonstrations spearheaded by student activists.