The fact that the government has responded heavy-handedly to the legitimate protests by the students should be condemned. A large number of students have for so long protested what they consider an unfair quota system in the public recruitment sector. Instead of hearing their demands, the government has tried to simply ignore the issue.

However, the government has reportedly wanted to talk to the protesters. That's a good sign. I would urge the authorities to sit with the protesters and consider their demands.

Nazib Bashar, By e-mail