In Khulna, student leaders and activists from various organisations staged a protest outside the Indian Assistant High Commission, breaking through police barricades in a dramatic show of defiance. The demonstration took place on Thursday afternoon along Shamsur Rahman Road, drawing attention from local authorities and passersby alike.
According to eyewitnesses, protesters marched from several parts of the city, converging at Royal More before proceeding toward the Indian mission. Upon reaching the office, police had initially erected multiple barricades in an attempt to halt the march. Undeterred, the demonstrators forcefully breached the first line of barricades, advancing to the front of the mission where they staged a sit-in and delivered speeches and slogans.
The protesters claimed that India’s policy positions and statements posed a threat to Bangladesh’s sovereignty, prompting their action. They emphasised that their demonstration was intended to voice public concern over perceived interference in the country’s internal affairs.
Khulna Metropolitan Police (KMP) Deputy Commissioner Tajul Islam confirmed the incident to The Daily Star, stating: “For security reasons, we had set up several barricades in stages. The protesters broke through the first barricade and staged their demonstration in front of the office, chanting slogans and delivering speeches. However, they could not breach the second line of barricades.”
He added that the protesters remained at the site only for a brief period before dispersing peacefully. “The situation has been brought under control, and no untoward incidents occurred,” DC Islam said, underscoring that the police were prepared to respond to any escalation.
The protest highlights ongoing tensions in Khulna regarding foreign policy and national sovereignty, with student organisations increasingly active in expressing dissent over international matters. Despite the breach of the first barricade, the police maintained control and ensured that the protest did not escalate into violence or property damage.
Officials emphasised that public demonstrations must remain peaceful and that law enforcement will continue to monitor high-risk areas, particularly near diplomatic missions, to maintain security and order in the city.
Key Details Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Indian Assistant High Commission, Shamsur Rahman Road, Khulna |
| Date & Time | Thursday, 18 December 2025, afternoon |
| Participants | Student leaders and activists from various organisations |
| Cause | Protest against India’s policy positions affecting Bangladesh’s sovereignty |
| Police Action | Multiple barricades erected; first breached, second held |
| Authority Statement | KMP Deputy Commissioner Tajul Islam confirmed situation under control |
| Duration | Brief sit-in at office before dispersing |
| Outcome | Peaceful dispersal; no major incidents or damages reported |