Bangladesh: Further student rallies likely at university campuses nationwide through mid-July over job quotas /update 3

Unionized students will likely continue to protest at university campuses nationwide and boycott classes through at least mid-July to denounce the reinstatement of government job reservations. Organizers have called for road blockades at urban centers nationwide from 15:30 July 8. In Dhaka, participants intend to gather at Dhaka University Library before proceeding to block traffic in the surrounding area extending to Farmgate. Similar demonstrations July 7 attracted thousands of participants and caused significant traffic disruptions along major roads and highways, especially near university campuses and Dhaka's Chankharpool, Kawran Bazar, Motijheel, Nilkhet, Science Lab, and Shahbagh areas.

Further rallies are likely to continue across urban centers in Bangladesh, including the capital Dhaka, Barisal, Chittagong, Comilla, Dinajpur, Gopalganj, Islamic University in Kushtia, and Rajshahi. Attendance could reach a few thousand people at each venue, particularly in Dhaka and other major urban areas. Activists typically hold marches between university squares and major intersections or public squares. In Dhaka, likely gathering locations include the University of Dhaka and Jagannath University campuses, Raju Memorial Sculpture, and the Shahbagh area.

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.