A clash broke out between police and anti-rape protesters today (11 March) as the latter attempted to submit a memorandum to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.
The altercation occurred near InterContinental Dhaka around 3:20pm, close to the State Guest House Jamuna, the official residence of the Chief Adviser.
Under the banner of “Bangladesh Against Rape and Oppression,” the demonstrators began their march from Raju Memorial Sculpture on Dhaka University campus earlier in the afternoon.
Their demands included the resignation of the Home Affairs Adviser over the government’s failure to curb ongoing incidents of rape and murder, as well as the establishment of a fast-track tribunal to ensure justice for victims, including eight-year-old Achia.
As the march crossed Shahbagh and reached the InterContinental intersection around 2:30pm, police set up barricades to halt their progress. Protesters attempted to push through, resulting in multiple scuffles with law enforcement officers.
The protesters accused police of using aggressive tactics similar to those seen under previous Awami League administrations to suppress their demands. They alleged that instead of facilitating their submission of a memorandum, the authorities resorted to forceful measures.
Following the clashes, the demonstrators retreated to the Raju Memorial Sculpture, vowing to continue their movement for justice and reform.
