Bangladesh police used teargas, batons, and stun grenades on Friday to disperse protesters near the National Parliament, as tensions rose over the signing of the July Charter. The demonstrators demanded recognition, legal protection, and rehabilitation for those injured in last year’s uprising.
Bangladesh police on Friday (Oct 17) fired teargas, used batons, and deployed stun grenades to disperse protesters who refused to leave the area near the National Parliament, amid uncertainty over the signing of the July Charter.
Hundreds of protesters gathered at the stage set for the signing ceremony, demanding state recognition, legal protection, and rehabilitation for those injured during the demonstrations that toppled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government in August 2024, according to bdnews24.com.
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The protesters reportedly entered the Parliament premises in the morning by scaling the main gates and sat on chairs reserved for guests while chanting slogans. Security personnel tried to stop them, but clashes broke out as tensions escalated.
Some protesters vandalised police vehicles and makeshift tents, while others clashed with soldiers and security officials. Several people were injured, news agency AP reported, citing witnesses.
The incident occurred shortly after 1 pm at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building, where the signing of the July Charter was scheduled. Police intervened to disperse the crowd with teargas, batons, and stun grenades.
The demonstrators described themselves as participants in the uprising that ousted Sheikh Hasina in July last year. They criticised the new charter, saying it failed to address their c