Bangladesh: Nationwide student protests April 9

Event

Thousands of students across the country staged protests and sit-ins on Monday, April 9 - one day after police fired rubber bullets and tear gas at Dhaka University students fighting what they consider to be "discriminatory" government job quotas in favor of special groups. Students at state-run universities in Chittagong, Khulna, Rajshahi, Barisal, Rangpur, Sylhet, and Savar took part. The Dhaka University clashes began on Sunday night (local time) and continued into the early hours of Monday. 

Context

The students are protesting a government decision to set aside 56 percent of civil service jobs for the families of veterans from the 1971 war of independence and disadvantaged minorities. In particular, the 30 percent quota set aside for descendants of veterans has been a major point of contention.

Advice

Individuals present in Bangladesh are advised to stay away from all public gatherings, rallies, and marches due to the risk of violence and to adhere to any instructions issued by local authorities.