2024 Anti-Semitism Movement

In March 2024, a new storm began brewing on the campuses of Bangladesh. The government had announced a partial reintroduction of the controversial quota system in public sector recruitment — a decision that reignited the frustrations of students across the country. Many had believed the issue was settled with the historic 2018 quota reform movement, but this sudden return of the system brought thousands back to the streets.

The Spark:

It all started at the iconic Raju Sculpture on the Dhaka University campus. A few students stood silently with placards reading:

"Stop undermining merit," and "We demand equal opportunity, not quotas."

The movement quickly spread to other major universities — in Chattogram, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet — gaining momentum day by day. The key demands of the protestors included:

Recruitment based on merit,

Cancellation of the newly reintroduced quota provisions,

Full implementation of previous reform promises.

Government’s Response:

Initially, the government defended its decision, stating that the quota would only benefit marginalized communities. However, students questioned the transparency of this classification — “Who defines marginalization?” The lack of clear answers led to intensified protests.

In several instances, peaceful demonstrations were disrupted by police intervention and arrests, which drew widespread criticism from civil society and media outlets. Eventually, job-seekers also joined the movement, adding more strength and urgency.

A Voice Emerges:

From the crowd, a bold and articulate student named Rashed Mahmud from Rajshahi University emerged as the movement's leading voice. His speeches, calling for a fair and competitive system, went viral on social media. One of his most powerful statements became a rallying cry:

"We want a level playing field — not privilege disguised as justice."

He was soon declared the official spokesperson of the platform titled “Merit-Based Recruitment Now.”

Impact and Resolution:

Under increasing pressure, the government formed a high-level committee to review the matter. Weeks later, the committee proposed several major changes:

Quotas would be limited to a maximum of 5%,

Only persons with disabilities and ethnic minorities would qualify,

Merit and qualifications would remain the primary basis for selection.

Following the announcement, the protest was peacefully suspended.

Conclusion:

The 2024 Quota Movement proved once again that the youth of Bangladesh are vigilant defenders of justice and equality. History repeated itself — but this time, a new generation took the torch and carried forward the legacy of resistance, standing firm against unfair advantages in the name of inclusion.