In the wake of the political upheaval following the resignation of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on 5 August 2024, the country found itself in a precarious situation. Students have emerged as key figures in maintaining stability and order during this period.

In such challenging times, when protesters and civilians were indiscriminately killed, wholesale arrests, block raids, and a nationwide internet shutdown violated citizens' fundamental rights, keeping the nation on edge for weeks– only a few had the courage to raise their voices against the oppression and injustice.

he violence and unrest during the quota reformation movement could not be hidden from the world. The brutality was evident, and cries of anguish were echoed by artistes from various countries around the globe. From mid-July, many Indian artistes including Swastika Mukherji, Anjan Dutta, Kabir Suman were active on social media and kept an eye on the protest.

"We urge everyone to stay vigilant and work together to protect and support each other."

Gen Z and Gen Alpha led a historic uprising. Despite brutal crackdowns, they persisted, ultimately forcing PM Sheikh Hasina to resign. Their courage and sacrifices, including hundreds of lives lost, have painted a new chapter for the nation. However, the fight isn’t over. Maintaining stability and avoiding vandalism is crucial to preserving the support and goodwill earned.

Later on, she showed her concern over attacks on police stations, and several places across the country. “We want peace—no more looting, attacking police stations, or revenge. Let's be restrained and responsible. We don't want any more bloodshed in our beloved Bangladesh.”

Recently, musicians of Bangladesh announced plans to gather at Rabindra Sarobar around 3 PM to protest against the widespread arrests and indiscriminate killings of students.

It is astounding how little a regime in power for 15 years understands the new form of student politics.

A narrative from both the government and some mass media outlets promotes a version of events that is far detached from the reality experienced

Under the platform titled “Artistes Against Genocide and Oppression”, a diverse group comprising visual artistes, photographers, performance artistes, musicians, poets, writers, researchers, architects, and art organisers, organised this rally of resistance. Their gathering was a response to the recent turmoil surrounding the quota reform protests, which have led to wholesale arrests and indiscriminate killings.

Can we envision a future where such pervasive violence and control are no longer defining elements of our daily lives?

Showing solidarity with the nine-point demands of the anti-discrimination student movement, a diverse assembly of professionals from the film, television, theatre, and media sectors gathered for a protest rally yesterday morning at the Capital’s Farmgate intersection. Actress Rafiath Rashid Mithila was also present at the rally.

Nearly everyone has voiced their opinions in this climate of division, symbolised by red and black. Yet, one prominent figure, acclaimed Bangladeshi actress Jaya Ahsan, remained notably silent.

The rally was a poignant reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and reform in Bangladesh, highlighting the role of visual media professionals in amplifying the call for accountability and change.

We spoke to students from different public and private universities who participated in the protests and asked about their personal experiences as well as their opinions regarding the newly reformed quota system.

Maybe it was the anger at a system that demanded martyrdom before acknowledging legitimate grievances

In Bangladesh, gender quotas are essential for cultivating a more equitable society.

Why did a student movement that started with a demand to reform a discriminatory and unconstitutional system get so violent?

Why the silence around security forces’ role in quota protests?

People relied on TV networks during the internet blackout for updated information. But was that expectation met?