Bangladesh Gov Faces Protesters' Quota Demands Amid Violence

The Bangladesh government is expected to accept a court ruling to lower quotas for state jobs, responding to students' demands amidst violent protests. The decision follows a Supreme Court verdict and ongoing curfew due to unrest. Authorities are urged to address eight demands, including a public apology from the Prime Minister.

The Bangladesh government is poised to formally accept on Tuesday a court ruling to reduce quotas for state jobs, according to media reports. This move addresses a principal demand from students who have been protesting vigorously.

Dhaka and other major cities in Bangladesh witnessed a second day of calm under a curfew and an internet and telecoms shutdown, imposed following one of the worst bouts of violence in recent years that resulted in nearly 150 deaths. The protests erupted last week after a high court reinstated a quota system reserving almost 60% of government jobs for specific groups, including war veterans' families.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government had abolished these quotas in 2018. On Sunday, the Supreme Court decided to eliminate most quotas, and on Monday, Hasina approved the decision.

The government’s formal acceptance of the court ruling is expected in its records on Tuesday, aligning with the protesters' demands. Hasina accused her political rivals of inciting the violence and stated that the curfew in place since Friday would be lifted once conditions improve.

Protesters have issued an ultimatum, giving the government 48 hours to meet eight demands, which include a public apology from Hasina and reopening university campuses that closed due to the unrest. Amid the violence, Malaysia plans to evacuate its citizens from Bangladesh on Tuesday, with the flight anticipated to land in Kuala Lumpur in the afternoon.

India has reported the return of at least 4,500 Indian students from Bangladesh in recent days. (Writing by Sakshi Dayal; Editing by Miral Fahmy)