Dhaka, October 17 — Tensions flared at the national Parliament premises on Thursday as more than a hundred demonstrators identifying themselves as “July Warriors” gathered to protest during the July Charter signing ceremony.
The protesters had three primary demands: official recognition of the July Warriors, protection of the fundamental rights of those killed or injured during the July movement, and legal immunity through a protection law.
According to eyewitnesses, the protesters broke through police barricades around 10 a.m. and scaled the main gate and walls to enter the Parliament complex. They advanced toward the South Plaza and occupied guest seats near the main stage, where they began a sit-in. Law enforcement personnel attempted to remove them peacefully but failed to disperse the group.
By 1:30 p.m., clashes broke out as police attempted to drive the protesters out of the venue. Demonstrators reportedly vandalized a police bus and set fires on Manik Mia Avenue in front of the Parliament. In response, police fired three rounds of sound grenades and tear gas shells to disperse the crowd, triggering widespread tension in the area.
While one group of protesters managed to enter the Parliament premises, another was stopped at Gate No. 12, where they staged a separate sit-in. “Our blood was shed so that others could flee abroad or seize power. Now they won’t even let us enter Parliament. Why do we need permission to enter the house of the people?” one protester shouted.
Security has been tightened in and around the area, with army personnel, additional police forces, and members of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit deployed. Senior police officials engaged in dialogue with the demonstrators, urging them to vacate the premises peacefully. Announcements from the stage also appealed for calm and restraint.
The situation remained tense in the afternoon, with law enforcement maintaining a heavy presence around the Parliament complex.
