ILA Strongly Condemns Acts Against BD Quota Movement

The Institute of Liberal Arts unequivocally condemns the recent acts of aggression against students and residents participating in the 2024 quota reform movement in Bangladesh. On July 15, 2024, students from Dhaka University and other institutions peacefully gathered to demand reforms in the quota allocation for government jobs. However, their peaceful protest was met with deadly violence.

Eyewitness accounts and reports confirm that individuals armed with rods, sticks, and even revolvers attacked the students. The violence escalated as police forces used tear gas and batons against the protesters, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities.

One of the most harrowing incidents involved Abu Sayed, an English student at Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur. Sayed was shot at close range by police officers using 12-gauge shotguns, resulting in his tragic death. This incident has become a symbol of the excessive force used against the protesters.

The Institute of Liberal Arts stands in solidarity with the students and calls for an immediate end to the violence. We urge the authorities to respect the protesters’ rights and engage in meaningful dialogue to address their demands. The Institute also calls for an independent investigation into the incidents and for those responsible to be held accountable.