14-party stages protests against violence

The ruling Awami League (AL)-led 14-party alliance Sunday formed human chains across the country in protest against the ongoing violence allegedly unleashed by the BNP-led 20-party combine.
The alliance leaders and activists as well as allied professional groups formed human chains in Dhaka and all the district headquarters for an hour from 3:00 pm.
In Dhaka, they formed a 16-km long human chain from Gabtoli to Sayedabad via Technical, Shyamoli, Asad Gate, Russell Square, Bashundhara City, Sonargaon Hotel, Shahbagh, Matsya Bhaban, National Press Club, Purana Paltan, Gulistan, Bangabandhu Avenue, Mahanagar Natyamancha, Ittefaq intersection, Rajdhani Super Market and Jatrabari.
The alliance leaders at the protest rallies held at various key points and intersections urged the BNP and its allies to stop violence immediately. Otherwise they have to face dire consequences, the leaders warned.
A large number of leaders, activists and professionals took part in the protest rallies. Many of them were seen standing on roadsides with party flags and banners inscribed with slogans such as "stop arson attacks, stop throwing petrol bombs, stop violent politics, no more bloodshed" etc.
Several senior leaders of the ruling Awami League and its alliance took part in the human chain.
Spokesperson of the 14-party alliance Mohammad Nasim at the human chain programme ruled out the possibility of holding any dialogue with the BNP and its allies.
"Stop violence or face dire consequences," Nasim, also health minister, said. There will be no election before 2019, he added.
    mzrbd@yahoo.com