Bangladesh Stands Quiet Amid Curfew Following Government Job Quotas Controversy

Bangladesh remains calm under curfew following the Supreme Court's cancellation of job quotas, which led to protests and the deaths of scores of people. Despite the serenity, telecom disruptions persist, and student protesters are demanding the release of detained leaders, a lift of the curfew, and reopening of universities.

Bangladesh remained peaceful on Monday amid a curfew, but telecom disruptions continued a day after the Supreme Court nullified certain job quotas, sparking deadly protests.

Clashes with security forces resulted in 139 deaths nationwide after the high court reinstated job reservations removed in 2018. On Sunday, the court mandated that 93% of government jobs be based on merit, down from previous quotas for specified groups.

No violence or protests were reported Monday morning, and the curfew was extended to three afternoon hours for essential shopping. However, student protesters demand the release of detained leaders, lifting the curfew, and reopening universities.

A 48-hour deadline for government action has been set, following last week's violent protests that saw thousands injured by security forces. The unrest is attributed to stagnant job growth and high youth unemployment, making government positions desirable.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, serving her fourth term, faces accusations of authoritarianism and human rights breaches, which her government denies. (Writing by Sakshi Dayal; Editing by YP Rajesh and Clarence Fernandez)

(With inputs from agencies.)