In a continued demonstration spanning two days amid persistent rainfall, a group identifying themselves as ‘July Fighters’ have blockaded the Shahbagh intersection in Dhaka, demanding the swift implementation and permanent legislation of the July Declaration and July Charter.
The blockade began on Friday morning (1st August), severely disrupting vehicular movement. However, a number of protestors appeared unaware of the exact cause they were rallying behind.
Eyewitness Interaction: A Revealing Interview
One young man among the protestors was asked by a BanglaNews24 journalist why he had joined the blockade. His response was:
“We’ve blockaded Shahbagh to secure our rightful demands. I was injured in the July movement. My sister was martyred.”
When further questioned about what those “rightful demands” entailed, he was unable to provide a clear explanation:
“I can’t really say at the moment.”
This exchange, particularly his vague and uncertain reply, was captured on video and has since gone viral on social media, raising questions about the protest’s organisation and communication.
Impact on Traffic and Public Inconvenience
Due to the ongoing blockade, major traffic congestion was reported throughout the adjacent areas of Shahbagh, causing immense suffering for commuters and pedestrians alike.
Traffic Diversions Implemented:
| Blocked Route | Diversion Point |
| Shahbagh Intersection | Traffic rerouted from: |
| – Katabon Crossing | |
| – Hotel Intercontinental Junction | |
| – Matsya Bhaban Crossing | |
| – Road in front of Shahbagh Police Station |
The heavy gridlock paralysed nearby roads, with people struggling to find alternate routes in the rain-drenched city.
As the protest continues without clarity among some participants regarding its demands, the public reaction
