March for Justice held despite nationwide police obstruction

The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, which initially began as a campaign for quota reform in government jobs, gradually evolved into a widespread anti-government Uprising. This movement ultimately led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina's authoritarian regime on August 5, 2024, reports BSS.

Among the various phases and forms of protest, the 'March for Justice' held on July 31 last year proved to be a defining moment that paved the way for her downfall.

On that day, protesters across the country observed the programme in front of or near court premises, holding processions despite severe crackdowns carried out by law enforcement agencies loyal to Hasina.

The 'March for Justice' brought renewed focus to the serious human rights violations committed by the Sheikh Hasina government, including indiscriminate killings, mass arrests, enforced disappearances, fabricated charges and brutal attacks on dissenters.

People from all walks of life regardless of political affiliation, class, or profession poured onto the streets of Dhaka, Chattogram, Khulna, Barishal, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and other regions, making the programme a resounding success.

In several locations, police used force to disperse demonstrators by charging with batons, and deploying sound grenades and tear gas shells. Over a hundred protesters were detained, and at least 90 individuals, including journalists, were injured in the clashes.

In Dhaka, students and teachers began gathering near the High Court (HC) shrine gate from noon. Around 12:30 pm, police detained several protesters. Undeterred by the arrests, remaining demonstrators held a sit-in for nearly three hours, chanting slogans in defiance. Teachers, including Professor Lutfur Rahman, then convener of Dhaka University's White Panel, joined the protest to lend moral support. A group of lawyers also participated by marching inside the High Court premises.

Meanwhile, another group of students attempted to march toward the HC at around 01:00 pm but were intercepted by police. Denied entry, they regrouped at Doel Chattar and later proceeded to the Central Shaheed Minar, where they held a rally.

At Jahangirnagar University, students and faculty brought out a procession under the banner of the anti-discrimination student movement. Around 1:00 pm, students gathered near the Mahua Chattar adjacent to the new Arts Faculty building for a rally and signature campaign, which was followed by a protest march.