Disconnected in the Connected World: Internet Blackout
The recent quota-reform movement in Bangladesh has brought the country to a significant historical moment, resulting in the deaths of more than two hundred people, including students and law enforcing agencies. Under the existing quota policy, only 44 percent of government recruitment was based on merit, while the remaining 56 percent was allocated to freedom fighters and their children, district quotas, women, and underprivileged communities. Students opposed this quota system and demanded its reform. Initially, university students across Bangladesh engaged in peaceful protests, rallies, and other activities, calling their efforts the “Anti-Discrimination Students’ Movement.” On July 7, they initiated a nationwide “Bangla Blockade,” obstructing roads and railways with demonstrations in major cities. As the protests escalated, they spread across the entire country, leading to violent incidents. The students’ demand for quota reforms resulted in significant clashes with law enforcement. On Thursday, July 18, around 9 PM, the entire country experienced an internet blackout, with all mobile and broadband services suspended, rendering social media inaccessible. This was followed by a nationwide curfew imposed by the government.
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