Dhaka police warn against road blockades amidst quota protests

Dhaka police are poised to take action against any instances of road blockades, as warned by Additional Commissioner (Crime and Ops) Kh Mahid Uddin of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP).

In response to recent disruptions caused by quota reform protests in the capital, the senior police official noted that while the movement had been allowed to proceed thus far, further road blockades would face legal consequences, as announced during a press conference on Thursday.

Addressing several pertinent issues, Mahid mentioned the Supreme Court‍‍`s recent decision to impose a status quo on quotas, indicating that the police no longer see a justification for the quota movement.

In 2018, amidst widespread protests, the government abolished the quota system for grades 9 to 13. However, a recent High Court ruling declared this circular illegal, prompting renewed demonstrations from students and job seekers from various educational institutions starting July 1.

Under the banner of Bangla Blockade, protesters have been organizing road blockade programs, significantly inconveniencing residents of Dhaka.

Mahid Uddin further addressed the protesters scheduled to continue demonstrations in the afternoon, emphasizing that with the Appellate Division‍‍`s four-week status quo order, there is no justification for causing public distress anymore.

While expressing sympathy and respect for the protesting students, Mahid emphasized the police‍‍`s commitment to upholding the country’s laws and the directives of the apex court.

Reflecting on the disruptions witnessed over the past 10 days in areas like Shahbagh and Science Lab, Mahid reiterated the police‍‍`s respect for everyone’s rights, while ensuring the safety and mobility of Dhaka’s residents.

"The directives from the highest court are supportive of the students. Therefore, if there is no longer a justification for protests, they should be halted. We appeal to the students not to continue with their demonstrations. Failure to comply with directives and continued protest will be considered an offense," Mahid cautioned.

He concluded on a positive note regarding the professionalism of the police force throughout the protests, expressing confidence that students would reciprocate with respect.