DHAKA, July 11, 2024 (BSS) - Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal today said the students are crossing limits by continuing agitation programmes in support of their demand for cancellation of the quota system.

 “We will listen to the demands of students . . . law enforcers are also aware about it. But they (students) are crossing limits. Police would not sit idle if they cause public sufferings,” he added. 

The home minister came up with the comments while speaking at a press conference on the ‘International Day against Drug Abuse and Trafficking’ at his secretariat office here. 

Replying to a question, he said the police take legal steps if anyone resorts to violent activities, including damaging public property and obstructing public activities. 

If the roads are blocked, sufferings of the general people, especially the patients and elderly citizens, are mounted, he said, adding that the protesters should realise it.

“I will request the agitating students that they should not blockade the streets unnecessarily,” the minister said and urged the students to return to their classes.

The home minister said the court has imposed status quo on quota issue. Therefore, quota doesn't exist now. The students should try to understand it and there is no reason for them to stay on the roads, he said, adding that if they stay on the roads, steps will be taken as per the law.

The government is always paying attention to the students’ demands, he said, adding, “As the matter is now in the court. It will be settled by the court.”