Legal avenues open for resolving crisis: PM
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has emphasised that the ongoing crisis surrounding the demand for quota system reform in government jobs can be resolved through legal means.
In her address to the nation at 7:30pm on Wednesday (July 17), she highlighted the scope for problem-solving within the legal framework.
Describing the incident surrounding the students' movement as very painful and sad, the prime minister said, "In response to the students' movement in 2018, the government issued a circular canceling the quota. Recently, the court overruled it, leading to renewed protests. The police cooperated in ensuring the security of the protesters and allowed them to submit a memorandum to the President as per their wish. Security measures were also taken."
She added, "It is a matter of great regret that some quarters took advantage of the movement to engage in terrorist activities to fulfill their undesired ambitions. The incident surrounding the students' movement is very painful and sad. Many precious lives were lost unnecessarily. Who knows better than me how painful it is to lose a loved one, I can say it is deeply tragic. May the souls of those who have died be forgiven, and my condolences go out to their families. I condemn all killings."
Sheikh Hasina announced the formation of a judicial inquiry committee to investigate the incidents of violence associated with the quota reform movement across the country. "Every incident will be investigated," she stated, assuring the nation that those involved in the violence will be identified through thorough judicial inquiries.
The prime minister assured that action would be taken to ensure that those who committed murder, looting, and terrorist activities, regardless of who they are, receive exemplary punishment.
The prime minister iterated that addressing the demands for quota reform through the legal process presents a viable solution to the crisis, underscoring her government's commitment to lawful and orderly resolution of issues.
