Police obstruct quota reformists’ reunion

Police obstruct quota reformists’ reunion

Staff Correspondent . Dhaka | Update: Nov 02, 2018   Prothom Alo

.Reformists for quota system in government service have faced obstructions by police in celebrating their reunion programme at Segunbagicha in the capital.

The organisers of quota reform movement from across the country gathered in front of Kochi Kachar Mela to attend their programme on Friday afternoon.

While visiting Kochi Kachar Mela in the capital’s Segunbagicha, this correspondent found the organisers of the quota movement were demonstrating and police members were guarding at the gate.

Police, however, at one stage allowed them to celebrate their reunion.

Police officers said none would be allowed to hold programmes without the written permission of the commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).

“Let’s allow to hold the programme. The movement cannot be stopped by police,” the demonstrators chanted slogans.

Quota reformist leader Nurul Haque said, “Prime minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday said there will be no bar to hold meetings and rallies anywhere in the country. Why are we being obstructed? We won’t leave the place until we’re not informed about it officially.”

Ramna zone police deputy commissioner Maruf Sardar said the reformist leaders required permission from police two days ahead of the programme in the capital.

“Did they take the permission? Ask the authorities of Kochi Kachar Mela why they did not open the gate. Did they pay fare for the auditorium?” he asked.

Convener of the platform Bangladesh General Students’ Rights Protection Council Hasan Al Mamun said, “Police verbally gave us permission. But we are informed by police that we will not be allowed to hold our programme today, Friday. But why not, it is not clarified.”

About payment, he said the fare is paid earlier.

The platform launched a movement across the country demanding reform of quota system in government service.

In the face of strong agitation, the government accepted the demand and abolished quota system in public service.