Quota Reform Movement: TIB seeks punishment for attackers

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) today expressed its deep concern over the attacks on the members of quota reform movement and demanded for exemplary punishment of those involved in the attacks.

In a press statement, TIB also urged for quick implementation of the Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's declaration regarding quota reform and publishing the gazette soon to ensure healthy environment in the country's education sector.

Referring to the news published in mass media, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said, the way quota reform activists are being physically harassed and injured is inhuman, condemnable, and illegal and these go against the basic rights of citizens enshrined in the constitution.

In the statement, the executive director also condemned the inactive role played by the law enforcers to ensure the safety of the quota reform activists.

"Though the movement of the general students to reform quota system was primarily blamed to be a movement against the government, Prime Minister ensured the validity and rationality of the movement through her declaration in the parliament", he said adding that student organizations, teachers and vice chancellors of different universities also expressed their support to the movement.

"Had necessary steps been taken soon after PM's declaration regarding the quota reform then there would have been no need of waging any movement by the students", said Dr Iftekharuzzaman.

Demanding exemplary punishment of the attackers, he also urged everyone to be respectful towards democratic values and attitudes.