On July 23, 2024, the government issued a circular radically overhauling the quota system in public service recruitment. According to the new directive, 93 percent of civil service positions would now be filled through merit-based recruitment, up from the previous 44 percent, while the remaining 7 percent would be reserved under various quotas.
At least seven people were killed and dozens injured in sporadic clashes between law enforcers and protesters in Dhaka, Narayanganj, and Narsingdi on July 21, 2024 -- the second day of a nationwide curfew.
The first day of the nationwide curfew, imposed late on the night of July 19, was marked by widespread unrest and violence that left at least 21 people dead and scores injured across Dhaka and other parts of the country.
The ongoing Bangla Blockade paused for a day as students leading the quota reform movement prepared for their next round of protests.
Defying the rain, they sat on the streets, waving banners and shouting slogans
How many of those injured during the July-August uprising, like Abdullah, are still fighting for their lives?
The interim government today published a preliminary list of the people who died during the student-led mass protests in July and August.
Bangladesh is heading down an extremely dangerous path
As artistes across the nation speak out against ongoing violence and aggression towards the quota reform protesters, actress Tasnia Farin has taken to social media to express regret for her silence. Yesterday, in a heartfelt Facebook post, Farin apologised to protesters for not raising her voice earlier, admitting that fear had kept her quiet.
It’s incredible how the same slogans, songs, anthems, and the spirit of Bengali nationalism and the Liberation War of 1971 are being echoed both on the streets and in assemblies, but this time with supporting views on the ongoing quota reform movement that has gripped the nation for the past month. Bengal has always been a land where political resurgence has stood on the stronghold of its culture.
Under the platform titled “Artistes Against Genocide and Oppression”, a diverse group comprising visual artistes, photographers, performance artistes, musicians, poets, writers, researchers, architects, and art organisers, organised this rally of resistance. Their gathering was a response to the recent turmoil surrounding the quota reform protests, which have led to wholesale arrests and indiscriminate killings.
Ekushey Padak-winning artiste Mamunur Rashid is a prominent figure in the theatre arena of Bangladesh. He has always stood by the people during any democratic movement in the country. In an interview with The Daily Star, he shared his views on the ongoing situation in the country.
Nearly everyone has voiced their opinions in this climate of division, symbolised by red and black. Yet, one prominent figure, acclaimed Bangladeshi actress Jaya Ahsan, remained notably silent.
This morning, a group of prominent figures from various cultural fields gathered on the Bangladesh Television premises to denounce the violent incident targeting the station. They held banners, festoons, and placards with various slogans.
Today, artistes and directors from the Dhallywood industry took to the streets to advocate for ordinary protesting students amid the country's current events. Despite the rain, they protested and voiced their support for the students. National Film Award-winning actress Azmeri Haque Badhan was among those present and spoke to The Daily Star.
The country is going through a critical period, and as a result, all shootings have almost come to a halt. Eminent actor and cultural personality Tariq Anam Khan is observant of the ongoing turmoil regarding the quota protest movement that has turned into a massive nationwide protest, leaving more than 150 innocent students and citizens dead.
The Joy Bangla Concert, known for bringing popular bands together and attracting a youthful audience, is facing backlash due to violence associated with the quota reform movements' protests.
In a striking display of unity and protest, numerous Bangladeshi celebrities have changed their profile pictures on social media to a solid field of red, in response to the deaths during the recent quota reform protests. This movement has quickly gained traction, showcasing the collective voice of the people against violence and injustice.
Due process being ignored during ongoing nationwide crackdown
