Dhaka, July 16 (V7N)- At least six people were killed and dozens were injured in violent clashes during nationwide protests demanding the abolition of the quota system in government jobs. In Dhaka, hundreds of students from private universities and colleges blocked key roads, including Pragati Sarani, Motijheel Shapla Chattar, Uttara, and Beribadh.
Protesters also disrupted highways and railways across the country, including in Cumilla, Gazipur, Kushtia, Chattogram, and Rangpur, in response to attacks on students during previous protests. The widespread demonstrations began after over 300 students were injured in attacks allegedly carried out by Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) activists at public universities.
BGB Deployed
The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) deployed platoons in Dhaka, Rajshahi, Chattogram, and Bogura amid reports of deadly clashes. The exact number of platoons deployed in Dhaka and Chattogram could not be confirmed.
Railway Services Halted
Railway services were disrupted as students blocked rail lines in several locations, including Dhaka's Mohakhali, stranding at least nine trains.
Casualties in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Rangpur
A 25-year-old man died after being injured in a clash near Dhaka College. In Chattogram, two people were killed and several injured in clashes between protesters and BCL and Jubo League activists. Another student died in Rangpur during a clash with police.
Heightened Tensions at Dhaka University
At Dhaka University, the DU proctorial body conducted drives against outsiders, confiscating weapons. BCL, Jubo League, and Awami League members gathered in the TSC area for a rally, leading to tense standoffs with quota reform activists.
Continued Clashes
Clashes continued in Chattogram and Dhaka's Science Lab area, with homemade bombs exploding and violent confrontations between protesters and BCL members.
END/SR/SMA/
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