Bangladesh Supreme Court Scraps Job Quotas Amid Violent Protests

Bangladesh's Supreme Court annulled most government job quotas after violent protests led by students escalated into deadly clashes. The court ruled that 93% of government jobs should be based on merit, sparking ongoing protests despite the government's clampdown involving internet shutdowns, curfews, and military presence.

In a landmark decision, Bangladesh's Supreme Court has scrapped most government job quotas following nationwide student-led protests that resulted in deadly clashes. The court's directive mandates that 93% of government jobs be merit-based, Attorney General A.M. Amin Uddin announced.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s administration had initially dismantled the quota system in 2018. However, it was reinstated last month by a lower court, igniting protests and severe government crackdowns, including internet shutdowns and curfews enforced by the army. The recent turmoil adds to existing political tensions ahead of January's national elections, marked by protests and demands for higher wages by garment workers.

Despite the Supreme Court ruling, protest leaders have vowed to continue their actions until student leaders are released and internet services are restored. The unrest has resulted in at least 139 deaths and thousands of injuries, attributed to stagnant private sector job growth and high youth unemployment. The government has indefinitely extended curfews and implemented strict security measures, underscoring the country's ongoing economic and social challenges.