Activists of Inqilab Mancha blocked the Shahbagh intersection in central Dhaka on Friday, demanding the arrest of those responsible for the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a spokesperson for the platform.
The protest began after Friday prayers, when demonstrators marched from the Dhaka University Central Mosque and took position at Shahbagh, causing traffic disruption in one of the capital’s busiest areas.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police confirmed the disruption. M Tanvir Ahmed, deputy commissioner (traffic) of the Ramna division, said traffic movement in parts of Shahbagh had been halted and diversions put in place to ease congestion.
Vehicles travelling from Banglamotor to Matsya Bhaban were diverted via Birdem Hospital, while traffic between Matsya Bhaban and Science Lab was rerouted through the Dhaka University area. Vehicles from the Science Lab to Matsya Bhaban were using internal roads via Katabon, police said.
Addressing a rally at the intersection, Inqilab Mancha Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber said the protesters would continue their demonstration until all those involved in Hadi’s killing were arrested.
“We will not retreat until the killers are brought to justice,” he said, adding that the protest would continue until the authorities provided clear information on the progress of the investigation.
He also called on government advisers to publicly brief citizens on efforts to identify and arrest the suspects.
During the protest, demonstrators chanted religious and political slogans while demanding swift action against those responsible for the killing.
Authorities have yet to comment in detail on the demands raised during the blockade.
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