In a dramatic escalation of the ongoing quota system controversy, hundreds of protesters surrounded the Bangladesh Supreme Court on Wednesday, giving Chief Justice Hasan Foez Siddique an ultimatum to resign within one hour. The demonstrators, comprising students, activists, and civil society members, are outraged over the chief justice’s perceived support for the reinstatement of the contentious quota system in government jobs.
The quota system, which reserves 56% of government positions for select groups, has been a contentious issue in Bangladesh since its introduction. In 2018, the system was abolished after widespread protests and clashes between demonstrators and security forces, resulting in numerous injuries and arrests. However, a recent court ruling ordered its reinstatement, sparking renewed demonstrations and accusations of bias against the chief justice.
Protesters argue that the quota system perpetuates inequality, restricts opportunities for deserving candidates, and undermines meritocracy. They demand the chief justice’s resignation, alleging that he has failed to uphold the rule of law and is complicit in the government’s attempts to silence dissent. The chief justice has denied these allegations, stating that the court’s decisions are guided solely by the law.
The government, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has faced criticism for its handling of the quota system issue. Critics accuse the government of using the quota system to maintain its power base and suppress opposition. The protesters’ demands have been fueled by the perception that the government is manipulating the judiciary to achieve its goals.
As the standoff continues, the country’s legal fraternity, civil society, and political parties have called for restraint and dialogue. The Bangladesh Bar Council has expressed concern over the protests, stating that they undermine the judiciary’s independence. The government has deployed security forces to the area, but so far, there have been no reports of clashes.
The crisis has sparked a national debate about the quota system, judicial independence, and the role of the government in manipulating institutions. As the situation unfolds, the future of Bangladesh’s quota system, the integrity of its judiciary, and the government’s credibility hang in the balance. The chief justice’s response to the ultimatum is awaited, and the country waits with bated breath for a resolution to this crisis.
