A large group of protesters marched toward the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Wednesday. Police stopped them while India raised serious concerns about the security situation around its mission in the Bangladesh capital.
The protesters, gathered under the name “July Oikya” (July Unity), chanted anti-India slogans and made several demands. These included the extradition of former PM Sheikh Hasina and others who fled the country during and after the July uprising last year.
Bangladesh Protesters Demand Hasina Extradition
A police spokesman said, ” police intercepted the procession, which started from the Rampura Bridge in front of Hossain Market in North Badda.” He noted that vehicle traffic on the main road near the diplomatic area, which hosts most foreign embassies suspended for hours.
According to local media, as the demonstrators moved forward, police set up a barricade. The protesters broke through it but encountered a stronger blockade, where they began chanting slogans against India and demanding Hasina’s extradition.
Protestors warns Indian High Commission
One protester told the private UNB news agency, “We are not frightened. We will not attack the Indian High Commission. But if anyone tries to maintain control over Bangladesh, they will not be spared.”
The demonstrators alleged that “Indian proxy political parties, media, and government officials” are plotting against Bangladesh. Hasina fled to India after a violent student-led protest, known as the ‘July Uprising’, ousted her Awami League government on August 5, 2024.
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