Bangladesh is facing widespread unrest as violent student protests over government job quotas continue. Television channels are off the air, and telecommunications are disrupted across the country.

The death toll from the clashes remains unclear, with reports ranging from 13 to 32 fatalities this week. Fresh violence erupted on Friday, with police using tear gas to disperse demonstrators.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government has reportedly called in the army to assist with maintaining order. Analysts believe economic hardship, including inflation and unemployment, is fueling the protests’ intensity.

The issue sparking the unrest is a quota system reserving a portion of government jobs for families of veterans who fought for Bangladesh’s independence. Protesters view this system as discriminatory.

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The situation has also reignited historical political tensions. Hasina has labeled the protesters “Razakars,” a term used for those who collaborated with Pakistan during the war. This has further divided the nation.

Authorities initially restricted mobile internet to quell the unrest, but disruptions have escalated nationwide. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected.