Violent Clashes and Fire at Bangladesh State TV Headquarters Amid Protests Against Quota System

Jul 18, 2024

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in DW

In Bangladesh, violent clashes have erupted as protesters stormed and set fire to the headquarters of the main state broadcaster, Bangladesh Television, in the capital Dhaka. These protests, driven by opposition to a controversial quota system reserving government jobs for families of veterans of the 1971 Civil War, have escalated over the past month, resulting in dozens of casualties. Clashes between protesters and riot police have intensified, with reports of unlawful force used by police against demonstrators and attacks by pro-government student bodies.

Protesters stormed and set fire to the headquarters of Bangladesh Television, trapping many inside.
The protests are against a quota system reserving a third of government jobs for families of veterans of the 1971 Civil War.
Violent clashes have resulted in dozens of deaths over the last month.
Amnesty International has confirmed the use of unlawful force by police against protesters.
The quota system, initiated in 1972, has become contentious, with students protesting its impact on job opportunities.
Bangladesh’s economic challenges have exacerbated frustrations, with millions of young people unemployed.
The Supreme Court has suspended a court order reinstating the quota system, but protests continue over distrust in the government’s commitment to reform.