Students’ March Divided Over Secretariat Entry

The second day of the ‘Long March to the Education Ministry’ saw divisions emerge among student groups in Dhaka as disagreements over entering the Secretariat led to confusion within the protest. The programme, organised to demand the resignation of the Education Minister, was also overshadowed by allegations of unruly behaviour towards journalists, including claims that a journalist was physically assaulted by some participants.

On Wednesday (15 July), after the completion of the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) and equivalent examinations, students from different parts of the capital gathered to join the demonstration. A group of students began their march from the Science Laboratory area, heading towards the Secretariat with the intention of staging a sit-in and presenting their demands before the Education Ministry.

Security arrangements had already been strengthened around the Secretariat ahead of the programme. As one of the country’s most important government complexes, the area remained under close watch, with law enforcement personnel deployed along nearby roads. Authorities reportedly introduced a four-tier security arrangement to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents.

When the protesters reached the area in front of the Secretariat, disagreements reportedly surfaced over whether they should attempt to enter the premises and who would represent them in discussions with officials. Questions regarding the formation of a delegation and the process for submitting their demands created uncertainty among the participants.

The lack of a clear coordination structure soon became apparent, with the demonstrators splitting into several groups. While some students supported sending representatives for talks, others insisted on maintaining their position outside the Secretariat. The disagreement created a tense atmosphere among the protesters themselves.

Journalists present at the scene attempted to gather information from the students about their demands, their intended meeting with officials and the identity of their representatives. However, many protesters were unable to provide clear answers. Some students allegedly reacted aggressively to questions from reporters, leading to heated exchanges.

Witnesses said the situation became tense at one stage as a number of students engaged in arguments with journalists. Allegations later emerged that a journalist had been physically confronted during the incident. However, despite the tension, the gathering in front of the Secretariat did not turn into a large-scale demonstration, with the number of participants remaining relatively limited compared with expectations.

The protest has been organised primarily against what the students describe as controversial decisions of the Education Ministry, with the resignation of the Education Minister being their central demand. Student representatives have announced plans to continue their movement through further programmes until their demands are addressed.

The incidents on the second day of the campaign have raised questions about internal coordination, leadership and discipline within the movement. Observers noted that large public demonstrations require clear communication channels, designated representatives and responsible conduct to maintain public support and ensure that the core demands remain the focus.

Meanwhile, law enforcement agencies continued monitoring the area around the Secretariat throughout the day to maintain security. Officials remained alert to prevent any escalation, while traffic movement and public activities in surrounding areas were managed carefully.