Bangladesh: University students to hold rallies at campuses nationwide through July 4 over job quotas

Unionized students plan to protest in university campuses nationwide through at least July 4 to denounce the reinstatement of government job reservations. Members will hold marches within university campuses the afternoon of July 2, including between University of Dhaka’s central library to Raju Memorial Sculpture at 14:30. Large rallies will also occur from various points to the Raju Memorial Sculpture in Dhaka on July 3 and 4. Up to a few thousand people are likely to gather at each venue, especially in Dhaka and other major cities. Similar rallies in the past week have prompted security deployment and traffic disruptions.

Activists typically hold marches between university squares and major intersections or public squares. Officials will likely maintain an increased security presence near any such 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. Associated localized transport disruptions are likely, particularly if demonstrators hold street marches or road blockades. Clashes between police and activists are possible; protestors may also engage in arson and vandalism.