Police Halt Protest March Against Rape and Violence in Dhaka

Police intervened to stop a protest march organized by ‘Dhorshon O Nipironer Biruddhe Bangladesh’ (Bangladesh Against Rape and Repression), a platform advocating against sexual violence, in Dhaka this afternoon. 

The march turned chaotic when demonstrators and police clashed near the InterContinental Hotel around 3:30 PM.

The protesters were heading toward the Chief Adviser’s residence to submit a memorandum when police blocked their path. Tensions escalated, leading to a physical altercation between the police and demonstrators. Police used batons to disperse the crowd, causing the protest to break up.

The march was part of a protest pressing a nine-point demand to combat rape and gender-based violence. As the protesters reached the police barricade near the InterContinental, they attempted to push through, prompting police intervention. Clashes ensued, with demonstrators confronting officers, who then resorted to baton charges.

Amid the crackdown, most protesters retreated from the area. However, authorities allowed a five-member delegation from the group to proceed and submit their memorandum.

No immediate reports of injuries or arrests were available.