Teachers advocating for the nationalization of private primary schools clashed with police on Wednesday, as they attempted to march towards the Prime Minister’s residence, defying a police blockade. The confrontation resulted in at least five injuries.
On Wednesday afternoon, a group of teachers, under the banner of the Bangladesh Private Primary Teachers Association, attempted to march toward the Prime Minister’s residence, demanding the nationalization of private primary schools. The protesters, frustrated by the lack of progress on their longstanding demands, gathered near the National Press Club before setting off for the residence of Chief Adviser.
As the teachers approached the Kadam Foyra area, police intervened, attempting to convince them to disperse. Authorities told the protesters they could send a few representatives to meet officials but warned that a large group could not be allowed to proceed to the Prime Minister’s residence. However, the teachers refused to comply with the suggestion, leading to a standoff.
In response, police used water cannons to disperse the crowd, causing several injuries among the protesters. Teacher Liakat Ali told reporters, “We are demanding the nationalization of private primary schools. We were peacefully marching towards the Jamuna, but we were met with water cannons. Why this discrimination? If the government had addressed our concerns earlier, we wouldn’t be on the streets today.”
Shahbagh Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Khalid Monsur, confirmed the incident, stating that when the protesters attempted to march, they were blocked by police. He added that after the teachers sat down on the road, they were eventually cleared. The situation is now reported to be under control.
LND/BG
