On July 11 last year, students across Bangladesh observed the "Bangla Blockade" programme demanding reform in the government job quota system. Defying government warnings and police barricades, protesters blocked roads, highways, and railways, leading to widespread clashes with law enforcement.
The movement, which began on July 1, had until then faced little resistance. However, on July 11, police responded with baton charges and tear gas in several areas, including Dhaka, Chittagong, and Comilla. At least 50 students were reportedly injured nationwide. In Comilla, police also fired blank shots to disperse the crowds.
In Dhaka, students of Dhaka University began gathering at Shahbagh around 3:30 pm despite the rain. As they attempted to cross police barricades toward the Hotel Intercontinental, tensions escalated. Police had set up water cannons and armoured vehicles, warning students not to advance. Around 5 pm, protesters broke through the barricades and took position under the Shahbagh Metro Station.
The protesters chanted slogans such as "Quota Na Medha, Medha Medha" and "Police Diye Andolon Bondho Kora Jabena."
The government responded strongly. Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader claimed the movement was being turned into an anti-government campaign. At the same time, the then-home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal warned that any violence or public disruption would be met with action. The University Grants Commission (UGC) urged vice-chancellors to bring students back to class, and the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) accused the movement of being politically motivated.
On the same day, the High Court released its full verdict declaring the 2018 circular that abolished the quota system illegal, stating the government holds the authority to reform or restructure the quota policy.
Despite the verdict and repeated warnings, protesters remained determined. They reiterated their demand for a reformed quota system that preserves a five percent quota for underprivileged groups and vowed to continue their demonstrations. Nahid Islam, a key organiser, announced that students would hold processions and rallies at all institutions nationwide on July 12.
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