Shutdown Protests Clashes Immobilize Dhaka

The pre-announced 'Complete Shutdown' program initiated by quota reform activists has led to a city-wide deadlock in Dhaka, with students clashing with police at multiple locations.

Reports indicate ongoing confrontations between students and law enforcement in areas including Jatrabari, Mirpur 10, Badda, and in front of Ideal College. The most recent news suggests that clashes are continuing in Shanir Akhra, Kajla, and Jatrabari.

Around 11:00 AM, students attempted to march towards Jatrabari from Shanir Akhra. Police responded with tear gas and sound grenades, igniting a clash. The Mayor Hanif flyover has been heavily impacted, with vehicles stuck and thousands of commuters suffering.

Mirpur-10 Roundabout turned into a battlefield as police confronted students protesting near an Awami League rally against 'the creation of anarchy by the anti-independence movement based on the anti-quota movement'. The confrontation saw students chasing police towards Mirpur police station around 12:30 PM, followed by police retaliation. The area has seen the closure of shops and vehicles, with at least five motorcycles set on fire.

At Ideal College, a clash erupted around noon, with a significant police presence and armored vehicles on the scene. In Merul Badda, BRAC University students took to the streets at 10:30 AM, and by 11:15 AM, confrontations with police ensued. Despite tear gas deployment, the students continued to resist.

Protests are also occurring in front of Bashundhara Gate on Pragati Sarani to Nabi Bazar, led by students from various universities, including North South University. The road blockade has halted all vehicular movement, causing significant traffic congestion. Students are actively chanting slogans as part of their movement.