Police Clash with Protesters Demanding Cancellation of Laldiya-Pangaon Terminal Lease

Staff Report: PNN

Protesters marched in Dhaka on Thursday demanding cancellation of the Laldiya-Pangaon terminal lease to foreign companies and halting the lease process of New Muring and Patenga terminals. Clashes and baton charges occurred, injuring several protesters.

The protest was organized jointly by the Left Democratic Alliance, Anti-Fascist Left Front, Bangladesh JASAD, and National People’s Front at the National Press Club from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. After the rally, protesters marched towards Jamuna, where police blocked them at Kakrail Mor. Clashes ensued, and police baton-charged the protesters.

DC Masud Alam stated the area near the Chief Adviser’s residence is prohibited for rallies and meetings. Despite discussions, protesters attempted to proceed, prompting police action.

BASAD General Secretary Bazlur Rashid Firoz accused the police of baton-charging peaceful protesters, injuring several including Abdullah Kafi and Ruhul Amin. A further protest is scheduled for Friday at 4:00 PM at the National Press Club.

This incident may escalate tensions between political parties and police coordination/security arrangements.