Dhaka: Violent protests have erupted across Bangladesh following a controversial decision by the High Court to reinstate a quota system allocating one-third of government jobs to descendants of freedom fighters. This quota had been abolished in 2018 amidst significant pressure from students and teachers. The recent court ruling reignited tensions, prompting widespread demonstrations throughout the country. Since the unrest began on July 1, official reports indicate at least 30 fatalities and thousands injured, though other sources suggest the death toll could be as high as 39.

Protesters are demanding that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government eliminate the policy of reserving 30% of public sector positions for relatives of veterans from Bangladesh’s 1971 independence war against Pakistan.

On Thursday, a group of protesting students reportedly stormed the Bangladesh Television Centre in Rampura, South Dhaka, setting the building on fire. The blaze continued into the afternoon, as protesters breached the main gate, entered the premises, and set fire to vehicles in the parking area, including cars and motorbikes, according to the Dhaka Tribune.

Amidst the escalating unrest, the Indian government issued a travel advisory, while the US Embassy in Dhaka closed its doors on July 18 as a precautionary measure.

Furthermore, on Thursday, there were reports of mobile internet and social media restrictions affecting many users in Bangladesh, coinciding with the heightened protests and violence surrounding the quota system controversy.