Student protesters against the quota system have called for a nationwide dawn-to-dusk blockade on Wednesday (10 July), demanding the abolition of the quota system which they term irrational and discriminatory in government jobs.
Nahid Islam, one of the coordinators of the protest, declared the blockade during a press conference held at 6:30pm on Tuesday in front of the Central Library of Dhaka University.
"Our demand is singular. That is, the abolition of the irrational and discriminatory quota in all grades, reducing the quota for the underprivileged groups mentioned in the constitution to a minimum level, and passing a law in the parliament," Nahid Islam said.
He outlined the details of the planned protest, saying, "As part of our movement tomorrow, a blockade will be observed across the country from 10am to sunset. This blockade will include both road and railways."
Addressing students nationwide, Nahid added, "Our representatives across the country will blockade in front of their respective educational institutions and at important points."
Other movement leaders, including Sarjis Alam, Hasnat Abdullah, and Asif Mahmud, were also present.
Hasnat Abdullah said that the movement is not against the concept of quotas but seeks a reduction to a minimal level.
"Many are discussing whether our movement is against the Liberation War and the freedom fighters. We want to make it clear that we have the utmost respect for the Liberation War and the freedom fighters," he clarified.
Regarding the specific groups that could benefit from the quotas, he said, "The quota can be for the disabled, ethnic minorities, and children of freedom fighters."
The announcement follows days of protests that saw major disruption in Dhaka and other parts of the country.
The student leaders have vowed to continue their movement until their demands are met.
