Dhaka, February 6 (V7N) – The High Court has cancelled the appointments of 6,531 individuals who were recruited in the third phase of government primary schools across Dhaka and Chittagong divisions. The decision was handed down on Thursday by a High Court bench comprising Justice Fatema Nazib and Justice Sikder Mahmudur Razi.

The verdict came after the court heard a writ petition filed by 30 candidates who were excluded from the final appointment list. The court ordered that re-appointments be made based on merit, effectively nullifying the previous quota-based selections.

Background and Legal Precedent

In July 2023, the Appellate Division ruled to abolish the quota system in government jobs, setting the stage for this decision. The High Court's ruling now puts the future of 6,531 appointees—selected under the quota system—in jeopardy.

Protests Erupt Outside Court

The verdict sparked immediate outrage among those affected. Appointees gathered in front of the court, staging a fierce protest against the decision.

  • Protesters shouted slogans targeting the judges, banged on the court doors, and clashed verbally with lawyers present at the scene.
  • Police were deployed to control the situation, restoring order after tensions escalated.

Implications of the Verdict

This ruling highlights the ongoing legal and political debates surrounding the quota system in Bangladesh. While the court emphasizes merit-based appointments, many argue that quotas are essential to ensure representation for marginalized groups.

The government is expected to face increased pressure from both sides of the debate, as it now has to navigate re-appointments while addressing the concerns of those who have lost their jobs.

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