In a heated demonstration today, police clashed with students advocating for an increase in the age limit for government job applicants to 35 years. The confrontation, which took place outside the Education Building in the capital, escalated as police used baton charges and water cannons to disperse the protesters.
The protest began at Shahbagh intersection, where a large gathering of students from various educational institutions chanted slogans demanding policy reform. Frustrated by the current job market conditions, the students emphasized the need for an age limit increase to provide equitable opportunities for older graduates.
As the crowd moved toward the Education Building, police established a blockade to prevent their advance. Tensions rose when students attempted to break through, leading to the police’s aggressive response. Eyewitnesses reported chaotic scenes as law enforcement charged at the students, resulting in injuries and arrests.
In the aftermath, S M Jahid Hasan, a former student leader, condemned the police’s actions and called for accountability. “We are fighting for our rights, and this violence is a testament to the government’s failure to listen to our voices,” he stated in a press conference.
However, the protest and Hasan’s response drew criticism from Chhatra League leaders, who accused him of inciting unrest and failing to engage in constructive dialogue with authorities. “Instead of promoting chaos, we should be seeking solutions through peaceful means,” a Chhatra League spokesperson remarked.
The clash has ignited widespread discussions on social media, with many students and activists expressing solidarity with the demonstrators while others support the Chhatra League’s call for restraint. This incident underscores the growing tension between student activists and established political organizations, as well as the challenges facing youth in navigating the current job market.
As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how the government will respond to the students’ demands and what implications this confrontation may have for future protests. The incident highlights the urgent need for dialogue and reform in employment policies to address the concerns of a generation facing significant barriers in the job market.