BANGLADESH’s government has announced plans to impose a nationwide curfew and deploy the army in response to widespread student-led protests against government job quotas. The demonstrations have turned violent, with at least three deaths reported as police clashed with protesters.
The unrest, which began over quotas reserving 30% of government jobs for families of independence fighters, has evolved into broader discontent over economic issues and unemployment. Violence has spread to 47 of Bangladesh’s 64 districts, resulting in over 100 deaths and thousands of injuries, according to local media and hospital sources.
Authorities have disrupted telecommunications and suspended some television broadcasts in an attempt to quell the protests. Train services have been halted nationwide as demonstrators block roads and clash with security forces.
The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka described the situation as “extremely volatile,” while the European Union expressed deep concern over the violence and loss of life. The protests have also sparked related unrest among the Bangladeshi community in London.
As the government struggles to contain the situation, some official websites have reportedly been hacked by groups supporting the protesters. Despite offers for dialogue from the government, demonstrators have so far refused to engage in talks.
