Authorities in Bangladesh have extended the nationwide curfew indefinitely due to persistent civil unrest following a Supreme Court verdict on July 21. The verdict, which mandated that 93% of public sector recruitment be merit-based, significantly reducing existing quotas, has sparked widespread disruptions and violent clashes throughout the country.
Supreme Court Verdict Sparks Unrest
The Supreme Court’s decision to shift public sector hiring towards a merit-based system was welcomed by the government, which plans to issue an official circular by July 23. However, this move has been met with fierce resistance from various groups who benefited from the quota system. The unrest prompted the imposition of a curfew, which includes ‘shoot-on-sight’ orders to the police.
Violent Clashes and Casualties
Despite a brief relaxation of the curfew on July 20 to allow access to essential food and medical supplies, violent incidents have continued. On July 20 alone, ten people were killed, and 91 were injured in clashes across Dhaka, in areas such as Jatrabari, Azimpur, Mirpur, and Rampura. Police used tear gas and grenades to disperse protestors. The previous day, 56 people died in similar incidents nationwide, and sporadic clashes continue to disrupt daily life.
Impact on Transportation and Services
According to an advisory issued by International SOS: Access to Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka and Shah Amanat International Airport (CGP) in Chattogram remains operational, although major international airlines have reduced services to and from Bangladesh until July 26. Rail services on several routes have been halted due to security concerns, and road travel in Dhaka is severely affected, with blockades and buses set on fire. Key highways, including the N5 (Dhaka-Aricha), N4 (Dhaka-Tangail), and N2 (Dhaka-Sylhet), have also been disrupted.
Government Response and Military Presence
The government declared July 21-22 as general holidays, closing all government and private institutions except for essential services. Internet disruptions have affected telecommunications and media outlets, both digital and print. In response to the unrest, the government has deployed 300 units of Border Guard Bangladesh across the country, with 75 units stationed in Dhaka. Significant protests and clashes have occurred in various areas of Dhaka, including Arambagh, Badda, Merul, Dhanmondi, Motijheel, and Uttara, with additional protests and road blockades reported along major highways and key locations across the country.
Assessment and Future Outlook
– The Supreme Court’s ruling addresses the primary demands of protesting students, but further unrest is likely.
– Opposition parties are expected to join demonstrations, demanding changes in the government.
– The military presence in major urban centers is expected to continue, with potential relaxation of the curfew if violence decreases.
– The suspension of internet services might be lifted amid negotiations with student representatives.
Safety and Advisory for Employers
– Account for employees in affected areas and maintain communication.
– Consider work-from-home arrangements for those near protest hotspots.
– Differentiate between essential and non-essential travel.
– Identify secure stand-fast areas with sufficient supplies for at least 72 hours.
– Establish reliable communication channels for updates and alternative communication forms.
Advice for Individuals
– Avoid all protests and political gatherings.
– Refrain from public discussions on sensitive topics.