FROM PAGE 6

“The majority often fails to acknowledge the hardships that plague indigenous people simply because the media find no human interest here,” the anonymous student adds.

Hritu Roy says her urban upbringing had given her a chance that did not necessitate using the indigenous quota. She says, “I am privileged compared to most people in my community (Chakma). Even though there is a quota facility during university admission, I did not use it, and I think people like me who had a privileged upbringing should not use the quota.”

Khingmokay observed, “A person who has been denied benefits can empathise with the difficulties encountered by minorities. We need representation to discuss concerns such as property ownership, evictions, and a lack of qualified instructors and educational institutions. So, I feel that a five percent quota for indigenous people was reasonable.”

To ensure representation, the government must take into account their struggles which take many forms. Systemic discrimination includes inadequate access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, which are frequently compounded by geographical isolation. Culturally, they face marginalisation with their languages, traditions, and identities devalued or actively suppressed. Socially, they are frequently subjected to discrimination and stereotypes that view them as inferior or less capable, which can continue to perpetuate poverty and marginalisation. These kinds of discrimination create an unfavourable environment in which indigenous people must constantly manage barriers that others do not face.

To ensure a nation’s growth, the struggles of minorities cannot be overlooked. True progress is inclusive. Concentrated development, while beneficial to some, ultimately falls short of nurturing a thriving, equitable society. By providing opportunities for education and employment, the quota helps to empower indigenous populations.

Azra Humayra is majoring in Mass Communication and Journalism at the Dhaka University.