Bangladesh: Further student rallies likely at university campuses nationwide through mid-July over job quotas /update 1

Unionized students will likely continue to protest at university campuses nationwide through at least mid-July to denounce the reinstatement of government job reservations. Members have announced protest marches at all universities from 15:00 July 6 and will boycott classes July 7. Attendance could reach a few thousand people at each venue, particularly in Dhaka and other major cities. Similar rallies in the past week have prompted security deployment and traffic disruptions, particularly near university campuses, Dhaka's Shahbagh Square, and along highways such as Dhaka-Aricha, Dhaka-Chittagong, Chattogram–Khagrachari, Dhaka-Barisal and Dhaka-Rajshahi. Teachers are also participating in the action and have been on an indefinite strike since July 1. Additionally, students have been blocking railway tracks in Mymensingh City.

Activists typically hold marches between university squares and major intersections or public squares. In the capital Dhaka, potential gathering locations include the University of Dhaka and Jagannath University campuses, Raju Memorial Sculpture, and Shahbag Square.

Officials will likely maintain an increased security presence near gatherings and may use force, including baton charges and tear gas, to disperse unruly crowds. Authorities could also refuse permission for events or implement temporary public gathering restrictions. Localized transport disruptions are probable, particularly if demonstrators hold street marches or road blockades. Clashes between police and activists are possible; protesters may also engage in arson and vandalism.