Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader has called on students protesting the quota system to immediately halt all disruptive activities and return to their institutions in compliance with court directives. He emphasized that any group with vested interest attempting to exploit the students’ emotions to create chaos in the country would be met with legal action.

Quota protestors crossing the line: Home Minister

At a press conference held today at the Awami League President’s office in Dhanmondi, Quader outlined the government’s stance on the quota issue. He accused the BNP of trying to turn the anti-quota movement into an anti-government protest. “Awami League will not allow BNP’s desires to be fulfilled. If anyone tries to politicize this non-political movement, we will respond politically,” Quader warned, urging everyone to stay vigilant.

Quader noted that some malicious groups are attempting to destabilize the country and disrupt economic activities. He highlighted that the absence of quotas over the past five years has disproportionately affected women and marginalized communities, stressing that quotas are essential for creating a diverse and equitable society. “Quotas are not a form of discrimination; they are necessary to eliminate certain disparities,” he said.

Quota reform: Protesters start road blockade in Dhaka amid warning by police

He mentioned that the country’s Apex Court has issued a four-week status quo on the quota issue. “We are observing with concern that despite ongoing judicial proceedings and court directives, efforts are being made to disrupt normal life under the pretext of the so-called Bangla Blockade program,” Quader remarked.

He accused certain political parties, including the BNP, of inciting students for their political gain. “BNP and a few other parties have openly supported the quota movement, trying to turn it into an anti-government protest. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul has openly stated that there is no need for the freedom fighter quota, revealing BNP’s lack of respect for the Liberation War,” he added.

Quader urged everyone to respect the highest court and the constitution. “Obstructing public movement and vehicular traffic in the name of protests is illegal,” he declared.

Quota reform: Barisal University students block highway  

Among others, AL Joint General Secretaries Mahabub-ul Alam Hanif and AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Organizing Secretaries BM Mozammel Haque, SM Kamal Hossain, Afzal Hossain and Sujit Roy Nandi, Office Secretary Barrister Biplab Barua were present.