Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Saturday said the demands and statements of the quota protesters contradict the constitution and the fundamental principles of state governance.

He asserted the law regarding the quota system will proceed at its own pace.

Quader, also the Awami League general secretary, made these remarks during a briefing at the party president's office in Dhanmondi this afternoon.

He emphasised the necessity of the quota system in the current context of the country, pointing out that a conspiratorial group is attempting to exploit the quota reform movement for their own gain.

“The absence of a quota system in recent years led to disappointing participation rates among women and marginalised communities,” Quader said.

He further highlighted that Bangladesh has one of the lowest quota percentages for recruitment in South Asia, citing that India has 60%, Pakistan 92.5%, Nepal 45%, and Sri Lanka 50% in public sector jobs and 60% in university admissions.

Prior to the press briefing, Quader met with representatives from university faculties who are protesting for pension reforms.