The results were published, the joy was shared, and everyone came to know that jobs had been secured! But long after the results were announced, the court invalidated those results. So many people gave their lives, and countless others shed their blood, demanding the abolition of quotas—how can I, then, ever accept quotas in jobs or anywhere else? Even if the whole world desires it, I do not. Let a Bangladesh free of quotas and discrimination be built. Not just in jobs—let there be a quota-free system everywhere. No one should have to live under the shadow of being labeled by a quota. Let everyone lead a simple, dignified life.
The primary school recruitment examination was conducted by dividing the country into three regions. The exams were held at different times, and appointments were made accordingly. Those who were recruited in the first two phases are now comfortably teaching, receiving salaries, and leading stable lives. They are free from the stigma of unemployment. However, those who received results in the third phase are now running to the capital, being chased away here, facing water cannons there, or being beaten with batons elsewhere. Recently, based on a government notification regarding quotas, the third-phase results have been canceled. The honorable court has ruled according to the law. We all want a 100% quota-free recruitment system to be implemented.
But is it the fault of those whose roll numbers appeared in the quota-based results? Have those who ignored the state’s official notification on quotas and published the results been held accountable? There were widespread allegations of corruption in the third-phase recruitment exam. Many claimed that jobs were being sold for money. Now, was the questionable result announced to secure positions for these “buyers,” or to avoid refunding their money? These questions are swirling around in our minds. However, above all is the law.
But think—if the entire country had held the exam under the same circular, on the same day, and recruitment had taken place simultaneously, would these third-phase candidates have been victimized? I’m just asking—no ill intentions here.
Social humiliation is a huge issue. People can sacrifice a lot for their self-respect. Imagine—a young man secured a job, and the entire neighborhood knew. A young woman got a job, and her in-laws were informed. Then suddenly, the job is gone! Can we feel the mental anguish they are experiencing? Can we fathom the shame and nightmares that will haunt their lives? Their lives will be tormented by the stigma of failure. Our society is not yet broad-minded. Losing something after having it is far worse. They will have to endure relentless taunts.
Some of those whose jobs were canceled may soon land better jobs. But some might fall off track in life altogether. On one hand, there is the law; on the other hand, humanity. If I must prioritize one, I will choose the law. However, I cannot deny or disregard humanity either. If we seek a fair solution, I would suggest a different approach—though I am unsure if my recommendation will reach those with the power to act.
Given that there are still numerous vacant positions in primary schools across the country, this time, and for the last time, those who received results in the third phase could be allowed to retain their jobs. Simultaneously, an equal number of new recruits could be appointed purely on merit. After all, it’s not as if those who were recruited under quotas before the abolition are being dismissed! Therefore, considering humanity, let’s not gift these individuals a life of unbearable distress after giving them the joy of employment. The recruiting authorities should be reprimanded. We must firmly investigate their rationale—what led them to recruit under quotas in a quota-free Bangladesh?
Even after this recommendation, two valid questions will arise:
- Will the government opt for such a compromise after the court’s verdict?
- What long-term measures can be taken to prevent such a situation in the future?
The main challenge now is—how will this matter be resolved, and to what extent will it be fair? The negligence of the recruiting authorities and the court’s ruling have both impacted the victims, making it hard for them to recover. I wish to focus primarily on the human side of this issue.
