21 July 2024, NIICE Commentary 9359
Dr Md Afroz
The ongoing youth protests in Bangladesh against the government’s decision to implement a 30 percent seat reservation in government jobs for the children of war veterans extending to grandchildren are outrightly rejected by aspiring youth. They are pouring onto the streets with much ferocity. The counter response came from PM Sheikh Hasina stressing the importance of the decision behind and equated the protesters ‘Razakaars’, the anti-national elements, fuelled the situation. As of 21 July, the death toll stood at 138 and protest leaders were demanding that the government take responsibility for them. It has caught nationwide protests with the involvement of other political parties and civil society groups. Government job reservations have proven to be a nail in the coffin at this moment as several issues have accumulated, such as uneven economic growth, rising inflation, unemployment, poverty, poor health and education infrastructure, etc. These young individuals advocate for fair resource allocation and equal access to opportunities. Their demand is for advancing healthcare, education, and career opportunities that benefit all individuals rather than simply a select few who are privileged. This youth uprising in Bangladesh is a stark reminder for governing authorities throughout South Asia. This outburst of fury is not a singular occurrence but a manifestation of a more extensive problem, the long-standing trend of imbalanced economic growth. The economic paradigm in the region has predominantly favoured the affluent, resulting in heightened inequality and societal turmoil. Failure by governments to address this imbalance poses the risk of transforming their nations into figurative minefields of dissatisfaction.
Bangladesh protests symbolise the extreme frustration among the people. The wealth gap has increased as economic progress is frequently assessed based on GDP figures rather than considering the overall well-being of all individuals. In 2021, Bangladesh’s Human Development Index (HDI) was 0.661, as reported by the UNDP, categorising it as having medium human development. Nevertheless, this statistic conceals the glaring disparity that exists within the nation. Urban areas demonstrate notable advancements, whilst rural regions exhibit slower improvement, emphasising the necessity for implementing more comprehensive development policies. This situation is not exclusive to Bangladesh alone. Sri Lanka encountered analogous problems that resulted in profound economic and political catastrophes. Pakistan also faces similar issues, as uneven development has resulted in widespread unhappiness and instability. Even India, frequently hailed as an emerging economic powerhouse, could be more impervious. India’s HDI in 2021 was 0.645, despite its high GDP growth rates. It suggests that there is significant potential for enhancing living standards for everybody by ensuring that economic progress translates into tangible improvements.
The common factor among these nations is their dependence on populist policies instead of practical, corrective measures that foster inclusive growth. Governments frequently employ authoritarian tactics to crush opposition, employing state institutions to ensure dominance. Nevertheless, this method is only viable in the short run. Political regimes characterised by the influence of wealth, physical force, and manipulation of institutions may temporarily suppress dissatisfaction, but they cannot address the underlying reasons for discontent. Bangladesh’s recent youth rebellion is a stark example of unequal economic growth in South Asian countries, where the wealthy have benefited.
Consequently, it led to increased inequality and social unrest, and if governments do not address this disparity, their countries will become minefields of discontent. The ongoing poor governance has led to severe political and economic disasters in Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India. These countries rely on populist strategies to fix problems rather than implement solutions that promote equitable growth. Many governments resort to authoritarian measures and use official institutions to stifle dissent, but this approach will ultimately fail.
Economic Indicators of South Asian Countries
The above table clearly depicts the worrisome socioeconomic situation of the South Asia region. There is a need for inclusive growth to make sure that all social classes share in the benefits of economic progress which can reduce socioeconomic inequality. Allotting funds to improve healthcare, education, and infrastructure in underserved areas, fighting for fair employment standards, and creating social welfare programmes are all part of this.
Way Forward
If the state ignores these problems, it will have disastrous consequences. More extensive and violent demonstrations, which can cause even more chaos, are possible if governments ignore these warnings. A pivotal moment has arrived in South Asian politics, which states and political parties should realise. There can be further decline which can lead to uneven development and increasing instability, if we fail to embrace inclusive strategies that can foster equitable economic growth and stronger social bonds. The present protests have made an obvious and urgent call for change. If South Asian ruling regimes genuinely care about their citizens’ future stability and prosperity, they should make inclusive development a top priority.
Dr Md Afroz is a faculty member in the Department of Political Science at Maulana Azad National Urdu University (MANUU), Hyderabad, India.
