At least eight people have been killed in various areas of Dhaka, including Uttara, Badda, and Savar, as clashes erupted between quota reform protesters and police. The violence spread across the capital to Mirpur-10, Shonir Akhra, Mohakhali, Dhanmondi-27, and extended to Savar on the outskirts.
One of the deceased was Dulal Matbor, a Hiace driver, who was caught in the crossfire in Badda. In Uttara, two individuals were killed amid ongoing clashes between Northern University students and police. Another student from the Military Institute of Science and Technology (MIST) lost his life near the Savar bus stand.
The 'complete shutdown' called by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement began today (July 18) with a violent confrontation between police and Brac University students at their campus in Merul Badda. The unrest quickly spread to other parts of the city, including Uttara, Badda, Dhanmondi-27, Mirpur-10, and Shonir Akhra. Police responded with rubber bullets and tear gas, resulting in numerous injuries among the students.
Additionally, residents in Dhaka and nearby areas reported disruptions to mobile data services since this morning.
Government Agrees to Discuss Quota Reform with Protesters
In a significant development, the government has agreed to hold talks with students protesting for quota reforms in public sector jobs. Law Minister Anisul Huq announced this at an emergency press briefing on the parliament premises on Thursday. He stated that he and Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury were appointed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to engage with the protesters.
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