Removal of district quota will worsen regional disparities.

Abstract

The article "Removal of District Quota Will Worsen Regional Disparities" by M. Azizur Rahman argues against abolishing Bangladesh's district-based quota system in government jobs, emphasizing its critical role in mitigating regional inequalities. The author highlights how northern districts like Rangpur, Kurigram, and Gaibandha face chronic poverty due to natural disasters and lack of opportunities, while more developed regions (e.g., Barisal, Noakhali) would disproportionately benefit from quota removal. Noting that poverty has doubled proportionally with population growth since independence, the piece asserts that equitable income distribution—not just per capita income growth—is essential for meaningful development. The article warns that eliminating quotas would exacerbate regional disparities, undermine poverty eradication efforts, and fuel social unrest, urging the government to retain the system to ensure balanced national progress.