In Bangladesh, at least 174 people have been killed and nearly 2,600 arrested in recent protests, according to a tally by AFP. Young people have been protesting inequality for weeks. Police have been cracking down hard since last week.

The protesting students disagree with the way government jobs are distributed. More than half of government jobs are reserved for certain groups. For example, a third go to families of veterans who fought for the country’s independence in 1971.

The law was repealed in 2018, but the Supreme Court reinstated it this year, much to the dismay of students. It means they have less chance of getting a well-paid government job, while youth unemployment is high.

After the riots, the Supreme Court ruled on Sunday that the percentage of reserved jobs must be reduced. Students disagree. They want the rule scrapped altogether.

Protesters are also demanding that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apologise and reopen universities. They were closed on Wednesday due to unrest in the country. Malaysia evacuated 123 citizens today in response to the unrest in Bangladesh. They are mainly students.

A protest leader issued an ultimatum to the government on Sunday to meet the demands, but did not say what would happen if the deadline was not met. The deadline was due to expire today, but has been extended by 48 hours.

During the riots, cars and buildings were destroyed and set on fire. A prison and a television station were stormed and protesters clashed with police.

The government has taken several measures to suppress the protests. For example, soldiers have been deployed and a curfew has been imposed. Public gatherings are also banned and there is an internet blockade. According to the army commander, the situation is now under control.

Now it seems that calm has returned to some extent, as the government has announced that it will ease some measures. The curfew is limited and the internet is partially available again tonight.