The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court upheld the High Court’s decision declaring the cancellation of the freedom fighter quota system in government jobs illegal. The appellate bench, led by Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan, affirmed the chamber court’s ruling, thereby maintaining the High Court’s verdict.
On June 5, the High Court ruled that the circular abolishing the quotas for freedom fighters in first and second-class government jobs was unlawful. This decision ensures the continuation of the 30% quota for freedom fighters in government positions from grades 9 to 13.
During the hearing, the Appellate Division advised state representatives to uphold the High Court’s verdict until a full verdict is released, after which a regular appeal can be filed. Chief Justice Hassan remarked, “If there is protest, let it be. Why should we change a High Court verdict based on protest on the streets?”
The High Court ruling sparked various discussions and criticisms on social media and led to protests at several locations, including Dhaka University. Students from Dhaka University demanded the withdrawal of the High Court’s decision to reinstate the 30% quota for freedom fighters’ children in government jobs.
On October 4, 2018, the Ministry of Public Administration issued a circular implementing the cabinet’s decision to abolish the quota system for first and second-class posts in government jobs. This decision followed a student movement demanding quota reform and a subsequent review by a seven-member committee. The committee recommended merit-based recruitment, leading to the cabinet’s approval to remove the 45% quota for government job recruitment from grades nine to thirteen.
Former cabinet secretary Mohammad Shafiul Alam confirmed the abolishment of quotas for first and second-class posts after the cabinet meeting on October 3, 2018. However, children of freedom fighters challenged this decision, resulting in the recent High Court and Supreme Court rulings upholding the quota system.
