Khagrachhari road blockade withdrawn, Section 144 still in force

The indefinite road blockade in Khagrachhari, called by Jumma students, was withdrawn from 12pm on Monday, September 29. The decision was taken to facilitate medical treatment for the injured and the funeral arrangements of those killed during the movement, according to announcements.

At around 9:30am today, the withdrawal was announced on the organisation’s Facebook page.

However, despite the withdrawal of the blockade, Section 144 remains in force for the third consecutive day in Khagrachhari Sadar and Guimara upazilas. Security forces have set up checkpoints at various points in these areas, restricting public movement.

Meanwhile, transport authorities have prepared to resume services following the withdrawal. Aslam Kalu, president of the Khagrachhari Road Transport Owners’ Group, confirmed that bus services on the Khagrachhari-Chattogram and Khagrachhari-Dhaka routes will resume.

It may be recalled that Jumma students called the blockade last Tuesday, protesting the alleged rape of a schoolgirl in Singinala area of Khagrachhari Sadar. During the programme, clashes broke out between police and demonstrators in both the district town and Guimara.