In the news
On 29 July, quota reform protestors staged new demonstrations demanding the release of six organisers under arrest. They demanded an "independent, acceptable and credible" investigation by the UN.

On 30 July, Bangladesh mourned for those killed during “the violence, sabotage, arson, looting and terror activities in the name of anti-quota movement.” On the same day, the ruling Awami League accused Jamaat-e-Islami of “instigating violence” in the country and proposed a resolution to ban the party with immediate effect. 

On 31 July, the Students Against Discrimination (SAD) announced a “March for Justice” to stress their nine-point demands and justice for the deceased people. The group announced protests in courts, educational institutions and on the streets. It stated: “We specially request teachers, lawyers, human rights activists, professionals, labourers and all citizens of the country to declare their solidarity with our demands and cooperation in carrying out our programme.” 
 
Issues at large
First, continuing protests with new demands. Started in mid-July, the protests in Bangladesh have entered into the third week. Initially, the protests were against government job quotas for descendants of freedom fighters during the 1971 War of Independence and other quota reforms. The protests continued despite the government’s promise to remove the quota system. Into the third week, the protestors are calling for the removal of several ministers for inflicting casualties. They are demanding a "public apology" from Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for calling the protestors "razakars," a derogatory term to refer to those who supported Pakistani military operation during the 1971 war. They also demanded to suspend the police personnel deployed at the protest locations. They additionally call for compensation to the families of those killed during the violence and a ban on the government-led student organisation, Chhatra League. 

Second, expansion and intensification of protests. What began at the universities has now extended nationwide. The minimal but persistent protests and occasional violence intensified with increased casualties. The violence led to the imposition of curfew, army patrols, and internet suspension. Initially, the students were protesting against the quota reform. However, currently, it includes civilian participation and extended demands. The involvement of opposition parties, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Jamaat-e-Islami party have intensified the anti-government protests.

Third, the government's response. Sheikh Hasina’s administration took harsh actions against those involved in the “mayhem centring the quota reform movement.” She urged the Ministry of Home Affairs not to look at “criminals” as “protestors.” She deployed the Rapid Support Force (RSF) and police to contain the protests. Police used tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades to disperse the protesters. According to Bangladesh media, Parthom Alo, the violence since 15 July has killed 266 people. The police and the RSF used live ammunition and arrested at least 253 students in 18 districts. The majority of those who died during the violence were students and youngsters.
 
In perspective
The student-led demonstrations have vowed to continue until the demands are met. On the other side, the government is unwilling to withdraw police forces and release detained protestors. The differences between the two sides are less likely to reach a compromise in the near future.