Internet Blackout and Curfew Relaxation
The country remained without internet for the sixth consecutive day. However, limited broadband services were restored in Dhaka and Chattogram by night, prioritizing emergency services, financial institutions, businesses, and media. Government and private offices were permitted to operate from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on July 24, and export-oriented garment factories were allowed to resume operations. Curfew restrictions were relaxed, enabling vehicle movement on highways and gradual normalization of the situation. Oil-carrying train services resumed after a five-day suspension.
Quota Reform Protests and Arrests
Amid the quota reform movement, clashes, attacks, vandalism, and arson led to a nationwide “combing operation” by law enforcement. From Monday night to Tuesday afternoon, approximately 1,100 individuals were arrested, including 517 in Dhaka. Over the past week (July 17–23), arrests exceeded 3,000. In Dhaka, 38 cases were filed over clashes and arson incidents.
Students’ Four-Point Demands
The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, led by coordinator Sarjis Alam, issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the government with four demands:
Restore internet services.
Lift the curfew.
Remove law enforcement from educational institutions, reopen dormitories, and ensure a conducive environment for students’ return.
- Ensure the safety of movement coordinators.Sarjis stated that meeting these demands would pave the way for dialogue. He also reported that coordinators Asif Mahmud, Abu Baker Majumder, and Rifat Rashid have been missing since July 18.
Statements from Ministers and RAB
Then-Law Minister Anisul Huq stated, “If students are implicated in cases, their details will be verified, and action will be taken.” Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury said, “Dormitories cannot be reopened without ensuring students’ safety.” Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Director General Md. Harun-or-Rashid declared, “Strict action will be taken against those causing chaos under the guise of student protests, with no leniency.”
Background of the Movement
The quota reform protests began on July 1, demanding changes to the government job quota system. After six deaths during clashes on July 16, the movement turned violent. A nationwide curfew was imposed on July 19 at midnight, and armed forces were deployed to assist civil administration.
