Police block Jamaat-led procession in Dhaka, delegation sent to Jamuna

Authorities halted an opposition coalition march at the Matsya Bhaban intersection on Thursday as participants attempted to deliver demands to Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser. The procession organized by Jamaat-e-Islami and eight allied parties sought a November national referendum plus four additional reforms. Police later permitted a delegation to proceed to the Jamuna residence to submit their memorandum.

The demonstration gathered at Paltan around 10:30 a.m. under Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar’s leadership. Activists from Dhaka South neighborhoods joined with banners advocating an end to political arrests during the interim rule, equal election access for all parties, religious freedom protection, and unrestricted political organizing. Additional officers monitored the area as the group departed for Jamuna at noon. The coalition insists that holding the referendum this month remains essential for national stability while maintaining their right to peaceful assembly under caretaker governance.