Bangladesh is grappling with the aftermath of widespread violence sparked by student protests against job quotas. The government has declared a day of mourning for the victims, but the move has been met with outrage from students who accuse authorities of deflecting blame.

The protests, which erupted earlier this month, led to clashes with police that resulted in the deaths of at least 300 people, according to official figures. The unrest represents one of the most significant challenges to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s rule in recent years.

In response to the violence, the government has imposed a nationwide internet shutdown, deployed troops, and arrested thousands of protesters. While order has largely been restored, tensions remain high.

The government has blamed opposition parties, including the Islamist Jamaat-e-Islami, for instigating the unrest. As a result, it has announced a ban on the party, which is already barred from contesting elections.

However, human rights groups have condemned the government’s crackdown, accusing authorities of a “witch hunt” against protesters. The mass arrests and internet shutdown have raised concerns about the erosion of civil liberties in the country.

The initial protests focused on a quota system that reserves a portion of government jobs for specific groups. The government has since made concessions to address the issue, but many students remain dissatisfied.

The violence has highlighted deep-rooted social and economic problems in Bangladesh, including youth unemployment and inequality. As the country moves forward, it faces the challenge of addressing the underlying causes of the unrest while ensuring accountability for the loss of life.