On July 3, 2024, Bangladesh witnessed widespread student protests and strikes following a court verdict reinstating a 56 percent quota in government jobs. Students across the country blocked roads, highways, and railways, demanding the abolition of the quota system. The movement spread to nearly all public universities, including Dhaka University, where halls were locked and thousands of students marched under the banner of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. In Barishal University, protesters were attacked by members of the banned student organization Chhatra League.

Students presented four key demands, including reinstating the 2018 circular as law, abolishing quotas across all job grades, and ensuring unfilled quota posts are filled from merit lists. Movement coordinators announced further programs, including sit-ins, online campaigns, and a nationwide student strike through July 7. Chhatra League activists reportedly attempted to intimidate protesters in multiple university halls, locking gates and preventing participation.

The protests disrupted major highways and urban traffic, with heavy police deployment in Dhaka. Student leaders emphasized that their movement was not against the court but sought a prompt resolution from the public administration ministry.