In protest of attacks on students and to demand fair quota reform, student protesters have called for a nationwide 'Complete Shutdown' to be observed peacefully. They made this plea in a statement released to the media on Thursday, July 18.

The coordinators of the anti-discrimination student movement claim that the joint forces of police, BGB, and the Bangladesh Chhatra League are attempting to suppress their justified and fair quota reform movement. Despite the spontaneous and peaceful nature of the student protests, the government has not taken any visible steps. Initially, the government delayed and evaded responsibility by involving the judiciary. Later, under government orders, law enforcement and party goons attempted to violently suppress the movement.

So far, over a thousand students have been injured, and 7 have been martyred across the country. In various regions, students are organizing spontaneous protests and resistance. Authorities have forcibly closed universities and educational institutions, barring students from the campus.

Students report that police have fired tear gas, grenades, and bullets in dormitories at Dhaka University, Jahangirnagar University, Rajshahi University, and Chittagong University. At Dhaka University, police, RAB, BGB, and SWAT jointly attacked a “coffin procession”. The government, by attacking peaceful protests, has created the current volatile situation. Students want to return to their studies. “Visible steps from the government could pave the way for a solution. Alongside our movement, we remain open to dialogue. Those responsible for the attacks, including Chhatra League members and the police, must be brought to justice. Quota reform should be enacted through legislation in the National Parliament.”, said the protesting students.  

In their statement, the students also clarified that the ongoing vandalism and arson are not associated with the 'Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.' “We strongly condemn such acts. The anti-discrimination student movement will not be held responsible for any violence. We urge everyone not to divert our movement. Our movement is a heartfelt demand of the students.

For the safety of students, we call on guardians, teachers, and citizens from all sectors to join the movement. We urge that all offices and courts remain closed during the shutdown. Roads and railways will be blocked. Ambulances, emergency transports, and media vehicles will be exempt. We ask for cooperation with media personnel.”