Quader slams quota reform protests as illegal

Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has strongly criticized the ongoing quota reform protests, accusing demonstrators of "illegally making a show of force against the country’s apex court" rather than pursuing legal channels.

During a press conference held at the party's political office in Dhanmondi on Thursday, Quader, who also serves as the road transport and bridges minister, claimed that malevolent forces were attempting to create unrest and disrupt economic activities by manipulating students' emotions.

He stressed the importance of ending coercive politics and avoiding actions that cause public suffering. Quader called on everyone to respect the decisions of the top court, noting that the Supreme Court had continued the judicial process on the quota issue after hearing all parties involved. He labeled the obstruction of public movement and vehicular traffic under the guise of protests as illegal.

Quader further commented on the “arrogance and misconduct” of some protesters, which he said had led to negative public reactions as observed on social and mainstream media. "Everyone must remember that such actions are not beneficial for the state or the people. We must all respect the vital institutions of the state and stop the politics of force. We must avoid politics that create public suffering," he added.

The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court on Wednesday ordered a month-long status quo on the issue of quotas in government jobs. In response, protesters announced their intention to remain on the streets until their demands for quota reform were met, planning to resume their demonstrations on Thursday afternoon.