Bangladesh Quota Protests Turn Violent, Leaving Dozens Dead Amid Nationwide Shutdown

In recent days, Bangladesh has witnessed widespread protests led by students demanding an end to a quota system that reserves 30% of government jobs. The protests began on university campuses and have since spread nationwide, with tens of thousands of students participating. In response, the government imposed a communications blackout, blocking mobile internet access and shutting down news broadcasts. The protests have turned violent, with reports of police firing bullets and tear gas at protesters, resulting in numerous fatalities. According to local media, 22 people were killed on Thursday night alone, with the death toll expected to rise further. The violence has also led to the destruction of government buildings and disruptions to telecommunications services.