The Supreme Court of Bangladesh has ruled to abolish most of the controversial job quota system that reserves government positions for certain groups, a decision that comes after weeks of deadly protests across the country.
The court’s verdict, delivered on Sunday, cancels the 30% quota for descendants of veterans from the 1971 independence war against Pakistan. However, it upholds a 10% quota for underprivileged groups.
The protests, led primarily by university students, erupted earlier this month after a lower court reinstated the 30% quota for families of 1971 war veterans. Demonstrators argued the system was discriminatory and unfairly benefited supporters of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ruling Awami League party.
The unrest turned violent, with clashes between police and protesters leaving at least 133 people dead and hundreds more injured over the past week. Authorities responded by imposing a nationwide curfew, granting police “shoot-on-sight” orders, and suspending internet and mobile services.
Prime Minister Hasina had defended the quota system, saying veterans deserved recognition for their sacrifices in the independence war. However, she agreed to discuss protesters’ demands after representatives from both sides met on Friday.
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The Supreme Court’s decision to largely abolish the quotas is expected to help calm the situation, though some protesters have vowed to continue demonstrating until the system is completely eliminated. The government has declared Sunday and Monday as public holidays and ordered all educational institutions to remain closed indefinitely.
The unrest has highlighted the frustrations of many young Bangladeshis struggling with high unemployment and a lack of economic opportunities. It also represents the biggest challenge to Hasina’s government since she won a fourth consecutive term in January elections boycotted by the main opposition.