The quota reform movement in Bangladesh has emerged as a significant social and political movement. In the current context, this movement is particularly reflected in the youth and students of the country.
Background of the movement
The existing quota system in government jobs in Bangladesh has been controversial for a long time. The quota system reserved for freedom fighters, women, minorities and the disabled was not fair according to many. Educated youth in particular felt that many qualified candidates were being deprived of opportunities due to non-merit based recruitment.
The beginning of the movement
This movement started in 2018 with the initiative of Dhaka University students. Their demand was to reform the quota system and bring it down from 56% to 10%. From the beginning of the movement, it got a huge response across the country. Students of various universities and colleges joined this movement.
Government response
Initially the government was not flexible to the demands of the movement. But due to the stubborn stand of the students and pressure from various quarters, the government promised to reform the quota system. A committee was formed on the instructions of the Prime Minister to review the quota system. Later, the process of reforming the quota system started as per the recommendations of the committee.
current status
The quota reform movement brought some changes in the quota system in government jobs. But still many students and youth remain concerned. According to them, purely merit based recruitment system should be introduced. The movement has led to increased awareness and increased social and political awareness among the youth.
Conclusion
Bangladesh's quota reform movement is not only a social movement, it is a reflection of the youth of the country's demand for self-respect and justice. This movement proved that students are the future of the nation and they are capable of fighting for justice and equality in the society.