In commemoration of Shaheed Noor Hossain and to demand the "removal of undemocratic forces and the reinstatement of a democratic system", the Awami League and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have each declared counter-protests at Gulistan Zero Point in the capital on Sunday (10 November).
Following the announcement of their programme, students from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have occupied the area surrounding Gulistan Zero Point since last night.
However, despite strong proclamations, no representatives of the Awami League have been present at the scene.
To avert potential unrest, law enforcement agencies have adopted a stringent stance.
By 10am, students from the Anti-Discrimination Movement could be seen gathering at the Shaheed Noor Hossain Chattar at Gulistan Zero Point.
Various political groups, including the Chhatra Union and Chhatra Dal, paid their respects at the site.
Additionally, leaders and activists of various BNP affiliate organisations were observed periodically converging at the Zero Point with processions.
In anticipation of potential disorder, multiple units of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) have been stationed around the area.
High-ranking officials, including the DC and ADC of the Ramna Zone, are present at the location.
To prevent traffic congestion, additional traffic police have been deployed, and plain-clothes officers are also patrolling the area.
Various police vehicles, including APCs and water cannons, have been stationed to maintain order.
An anonymous senior police official stated that law enforcement had been deployed in the Gulistan area since last night to ensure public movement remains unimpeded.
He added that efforts are being made to prevent traffic gridlocks arising from the demonstrations.
According to DMP’s Deputy Commissioner of Media and Public Relations, Mohammad Talebur Rahman, additional security measures are standard during such events.
"The police have taken a strict stance concerning the rallies at Gulistan. No banned organisations will be permitted to demonstrate on the streets, and any attempts to disrupt public safety will be met with strict action."
On Saturday (9 November), the Awami League’s verified Facebook page announced plans for a protest procession at Gulistan Zero Point.
Conversely, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement called for a mass rally at the same location, demanding justice for the ousted Awami League.
Later on 9 November, the movement’s convenor, Hasnat Abdullah, announced via a verified Facebook post that a mass gathering would take place at noon on Sunday (10 November), at Gulistan Zero Point to seek justice for the fallen autocratic regime of the Awami League.
