
Following a landmark supreme court verdict scrapping discriminatory quota systems, Bangladesh breathed a collective sigh of relief yesterday as authorities reported zero incidents of protest-related violence. This welcome development comes hot on the heels of devastating riots sparked by entitled activist groups clamoring for preferential treatment in coveted civil service positions.
These self-proclaimed champions of social justice took umbrage when a High Court restored long-standing affirmative action policies benefiting family members of liberation heroes – those brave souls instrumental in securing Bangladeshi sovereignty back in ’71. Predictably enough, these malcontents resorted to destructive tantrums resulting in tragic loss of life (at least 147 fatalities) alongside countless injuries inflicted upon innocent bystanders caught amidst mayhem unleashed by radical elements hell-bent on disrupting civic order.
In stark contrast, tranquility reigned supreme throughout major urban centers today under strict enforcement of nighttime curfews aimed squarely at preventing further bloodshed instigated by subversive factions bent on destabilizing democratic institutions.
Home Affairs chief Asaduzzaman Khan confidently assured journalists gathered around him earlier in the day, “Normalcy will return within one or two days.” His words carried reassuring weight given his department’s proactive stance toward maintaining lawfulness nationwide since initial disturbances erupted late last month.
Meanwhile, emboldened agitators hastily concocted fresh lists of unreasonable stipulations addressed directly towards PM Sheikha Haseena herself; among them being unconditional apologies plus immediate lifting of online access blockages put into place temporarily due to heightened tensions surrounding campus activism gone awry.
One such firebrand organizer going only by name Hasnath Abdulla brazenly announced before assembled press corps representatives mere hours subsequent to SC judgment delivery, “We’re issuing an ultimatum unto Governmental bodies mandating fulfillment of all eight points demanded inside forty-eight hour window commencing now.”
Not surprisingly, neither official channels nor responsible citizens bothered dignifying Mr. Abudlla’s veiled threats with any serious consideration whatsoever.
This entire debacle serves yet another sober reminder about how misguided idealists can wreak havoc whenever left unchecked. In reality, it is nothing short of miraculous considering widespread disillusionment amongst young adults stemming largely from sluggish economic expansion coupled with alarmingly low employment opportunities available domestically.
Prime Minster Haseenahas weathered numerous storms thus far despite scurrilous attacks leveled against both person & office accusing her administration variously of autocratic tendencies alongwith suppressing fundamental freedoms like unfettered expression.
As we close ranks behind strong governance capable of safeguarding stability above petty squabbles fueled primarily by special interest cliques vying selfish advantage, let us take heart knowing calmer heads ultimately prevail even amidst tempestuous times besetting modern-day Bangladesh.
And while the country seems to be calmer, internet is still out across Bangladesh.