On July 22, 2026, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina met with top business leaders at her office amid intense nationwide protests over the government’s quota reform policy. During the meeting, she dismissed rumors of fleeing the country, declaring, “Sheikh Hasina does not flee.” Business leaders, including heads of major industrial groups, expressed full support for her. The meeting followed days of violent clashes and a government crackdown that left hundreds dead and thousands detained.

The unrest began after a July 2024 government order approved a 7 percent quota in public service jobs, reserving 5 percent for freedom fighters’ families, 1 percent for ethnic minorities, and 1 percent for persons with disabilities and the third gender. Student protesters rejected the order, demanding full merit-based recruitment. The government responded with internet shutdowns, curfews, and forceful suppression across major cities.

The United Nations expressed concern over the reported use of UN-marked armored vehicles by the Bangladesh Army during the crackdown. Law enforcement leaders later visited affected areas, vowing legal action against those involved in the violence.