The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has imposed a comprehensive ban on all forms of public gatherings in key government areas and their surrounding zones within the capital. The restriction, which came into effect on Wednesday, 4 February, applies to the Bangladesh Secretariat, the official residence of the Chief Adviser at Jamuna, and nearby strategic locations.
According to a public notice issued by the DMP headquarters, the measure has been taken to maintain public order and ensure the security of the Chief Adviser and other high-ranking government officials. The prohibition has been implemented under the authority granted by Section 29 of the relevant ordinance and will remain in force until further notice.
The ban explicitly covers the following activities:
Meetings and assemblies
Mass gatherings
Processions
Human chains or demonstrations
Sit-ins or strikes
Parades and ceremonial marches
DMP Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali, who signed the notice, emphasised that the restricted zones are not limited to government offices and official residences alone. They also include important intersections and surrounding roadways critical to the city’s administrative operations.
The details of the restricted areas and the prohibited activities are summarised below:
| Area / Crossing | Specific Location | Prohibited Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Bangladesh Secretariat | All adjoining government buildings and their surroundings | Meetings, assemblies, processions, human chains, sit-ins, parades |
| Chief Adviser’s Official Residence (Jamuna) | Residence and neighbouring roads | All of the above activities |
| Hotel Intercontinental Crossing | From Kakrail Mosque Crossing to Minto Road Crossing | All of the above activities |
| Officers’ Club Crossing | Intermediate area around Minto Road Crossing | All of the above activities |
The DMP has urged citizens to obtain prior approval for any personal, political, or social gatherings, particularly when planning to cross or conduct activities within these restricted zones. Violations that disrupt public order may result in legal action.
Security experts note that controlling public access in these vital administrative zones is essential to reduce potential security risks. The current measures aim not only to safeguard senior officials, including the Chief Adviser, but also to strengthen the overall security framework of Dhaka city.
In addition, the DMP has called on residents to cooperate by observing social responsibility and complying with the law, thereby helping to maintain peace and stability across the capital during this period of heightened security.