Writ seeking prohibition on direct firing during protests dismissed by HC

A writ petition seeking a court directive to prevent the use of direct firing during protests has been dismissed. 

The High Court (HC) bench emphasized that while controlling unrest, the law must be adhered to, and citizens retain the right to participate in peaceful gatherings. 

If the use of firearms becomes necessary, proper legal procedures must be followed, the court added.

The High Court bench consisting of Justice Mustafa Zaman Islam and Justice SM Masud Hossain Dolon dismissed the writ petition aimed at prohibiting direct firing during protests.

The writ, filed on July 29 by Supreme Court lawyers Manzur Al Matin Pitam and Ainun Nahar Siddiqa Lipi, named the Cabinet Secretary, Home Ministry Secretary, Inspector General of Police (IGP), and other officials as defendants. 

Barrister Aneek R Haque represented the petitioners.

The petition called for the release of the quota protest coordinators held in Detective Branch custody and demanded an order to stop law enforcement from firing on protesters who were demonstrating against the quota system, which has now led to the government‍‍`s resignation.

The six protest coordinators were released on Thursday (August 1) from DB custody. The day before, DB chief, Additional Commissioner Harun or Rashid was transferred from his DB duty facing criticism.  

The initial petition was heard on July 29, with the decision scheduled for the following day. 

However, as both sides had not finished presenting their arguments, a new date was set for Wednesday. The hearing was postponed from Wednesday (July 31) because Justice Dolon, the junior justice on the bench, fell ill.