Bangladesh

UIU students block Natun Bazar intersection protesting ‘arbitrary’ expulsions

Heavy traffic snarls roads to intersection from South Badda and Kuril
Photo: AMRAN HOSSAIN

Students of United International University (UIU) blocked the Natun Bazar intersection in Dhaka since this morning, protesting what they alleged were "arbitrary" expulsions and "authoritarian" actions by the university administration.

As per prior announcement, demonstrators began gathering at the intersection around 8:30am, Rakibul Hasan, officer-in-charge of Bhatara Police Station confirmed The Daily Star.

Holding placards and chanting slogans, they occupied the road, causing severe disruption to vehicular movement.

Photo: AMRAN HOSSAIN

As of 4:00pm, the protest was still ongoing. However, limited vehicular movement to and from Rampura and Badda had resumed through a single lane. 

Photo: AMRAN HOSSAIN

A few police personnel suffered minor injuries while attempting to approach and communicate with the demonstrators, the OC added.

The protesters alleged that several students had been expelled without prior notice or explanation.

Photo: AMRAN HOSSAIN

The protest will continue until a full investigation is carried out and administrative action is taken against those responsible, they said.

"We will not leave until our demands are met. We have tried to voice our concerns peacefully many times, but no one paid attention," said one of the protesters.

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