Injured protesters continue sit-in

Individuals who were injured during the July mass uprising yesterday continued a sit-in protest by blocking Dhaka's Shahbagh intersection.

They began their demonstration on Saturday night to press home their three-point demand that includes a permanent ban on the Awami League, official recognition of the "July Charter", and access to proper medical treatment.

The protest comes after a three-day demonstration led by leaders and activists of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and other political groups demanding a ban on the AL.

While most of the protesting groups left the Shahbagh intersection following the government's announcement of a ban on AL's political activities, the injured protesters chose to remain at the intersection.

Later, family members of those injured and killed in the uprising joined them.

As of 5:10pm yesterday, the demonstrators were seen blocking the Shahbagh intersection, creating barricades at the entry points of the four connecting roads, thereby halting all vehicular movement in the area.

Photo: Amran Hossain/Star

Vehicles from Farmgate and Science Laboratory areas were seen being diverted through Matsya Bhaban and Hare Road, causing significant congestion in adjacent areas.

The government on Saturday decided to ban all activities of the AL, including in the cyberspace, under the Anti-Terrorism Act until the International Crimes Tribunal completes the trial of the party and its leaders.