“Section 144 enforced at the Chief Advisor’s residence.”

The authorities have invoked Section 144 near the residence of the Chief Adviser in the Jamuna area of Dhaka. The announcement was made on Friday afternoon by Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali.

The move comes after a large assembly of government employees, from various ministries and departments, gathered earlier in the day at the Central Shahid Minar in Dhaka. The demonstration was organised to demand the prompt publication and implementation of the 9th pay scale gazette. Following a brief rally at the Minar, participants began marching towards the Chief Adviser’s official residence in Jamuna.

At approximately 11:00 am, as the procession reached the road adjacent to the Hotel Intercontinental, police set up barricades to prevent further advance. Protesters attempted to break through the barricades, prompting a confrontation that quickly escalated into violent clashes.

In an effort to restore order, the police deployed tear gas shells, water cannons, and sound grenades, causing the demonstrators to disperse temporarily. However, the protesters regrouped shortly thereafter, attempting once more to move towards the Jamuna residence, leading to repeated skirmishes along the route.

The confrontations continued along the roads leading to the Chief Adviser’s residence from around 11:30 am onwards. Amid the escalating tension, Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali arrived at the scene and formally announced the imposition of Section 144 to prevent further gatherings and maintain law and order.

The repeated clashes resulted in a tense standoff between law enforcement and demonstrators throughout the day. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid the area and comply with the restrictions to ensure public safety.

Timeline of Friday’s Events

The police have emphasised that Section 144 is a temporary measure aimed at preventing further violence and ensuring the safety of both citizens and public property.