In support of the general strike and protests across the country, Awami League activists and supporters have organized torch processions, picketing, and demonstrations, protesting the vandalism of the residence of Bangladesh’s founder, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, at 32 Dhanmondi, the withdrawal of false charges against Sheikh Hasina and other leaders, and demanding the resignation of the illegal occupier Yunus.
The general strike, called by Awami League against various government policies, saw spontaneous participation from the public nationwide. Public transport was limited in the capital and several cities, with markets and shops partially closed.
Dhaka South City
A torch procession was held by the Dhaka South City Youth League in the Mirhazirbagh area. The procession was organized to protest the vandalism of the “Bangabandhu Bhaban Dhanmondi 32”, a significant site of the Liberation War, the attacks on the homes of Awami League and affiliated organizations’ leaders, looting, arson, and to demand the resignation of the illegal occupier Yunus.
Dhaka North City
In various areas of Dhaka North City, protest marches were held in support of the strike. Activists marched through Gulshan, Banani, Mohammadpur, Mirpur, Farmgate, and Shahbagh.
Gopalganj
On the night of February 17, Awami League and Chhatra League activists organized torch processions in Dumuria and Gopalpur in the Tungipara area of Gopalganj. The procession was led by Momin Murtuza, the General Secretary of Dumuria Union Chhatra League.
Kushtia and Meherpur
At the call of the Bangladesh Awami League, spontaneous strikes were observed on the Kushtia-Mirpur, Meherpur to Kushtia highway, and Kushtia to Rajshahi-Dhaka highways. Protests and road blockages were observed in several places.
Chattogram City
A general strike was also observed in Chattogram city, with fewer vehicles on the roads since the early morning. Areas like Jamal Khan, Andarkilla, Nandan Kanon, New Market, Chakbazar, Sixteen City Two Number Gate, Bahaddarhat, GEC Moor, and Dampura saw fewer vehicles than usual. Due to the strike, traffic was limited in the Koronfuli Bridge and Patenga areas, causing inconvenience to the public.
Rajshahi
In Rajshahi, Awami League activists organized protests and marches in several areas including Saheb Bazar, Shalbagan, Nawdapara, and Bhadra Moor.
Sylhet
A general strike was also observed in Sylhet. Traffic was limited on the Dhaka-Sylhet highway, and Awami League and Youth League activists held positions at various key locations in the city.
Faridpur and Moulvibazar
In Faridpur’s Saltha upazila, Awami League supporters organized protests in favor of the strike. The Dhaka-Sylhet highway in the Moulvibazar region saw significant public support for the strike.
Narayanganj and Patuakhali
On the night of February 17, the Narayanganj district Awami League organized a torch procession at the Bishwo Road. The same night, all the affiliated organizations of the Awami League in Patuakhali also held torch processions.
Bandarban
In Bandarban, the district Chhatra League organized a torch procession demanding the resignation of illegal occupier Yunus.
Bogra
In Bogra’s Dhunat upazila, Awami League activists held a torch procession in support of the strike. However, after the procession ended, attacks were launched on the homes and businesses of three Awami League leaders.
On the night of February 17, Awami League members reported that BNP activists had attacked their homes and businesses. Tensions escalated as Awami League supporters organized a counter-resistance, and BNP members vandalized three locations.
Although the general strike was largely peaceful across the country, clashes broke out in some areas. Tensions flared between Awami League and BNP activists in places like Gabtali in Dhaka, Saheb Bazar in Rajshahi, and Dhunat in Bogra.
In some places, additional security measures were enforced by the police, and Awami League supporters burned tires on the streets as a form of protest.
The administration deployed additional police and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) personnel to maintain law and order. Security checkpoints were set up at key locations in Dhaka and other cities.
Government officials assured that necessary measures were taken to ensure public safety and that the situation was being closely monitored.
The general strike called by the Bangladesh Awami League has had a significant impact across the country. While many areas saw peaceful demonstrations, tensions rose in certain places. The government and administration are taking steps to manage the situation.
The strike has had some impact on business activities and public movement across the country, but Awami League leaders have claimed that the public has shown solidarity with their demands and that they will continue their struggle.