Mass gatherings continue in Dhaka despite official ban

Since the interim government assumed office, mass gatherings, rallies, and blockades have become a daily occurrence in Dhaka and across the country. Despite government initiatives and strict police monitoring to maintain law and order, various groups are occupying streets every day to achieve their demands through demonstrations.

Experts say that political unrest and simmering grievances are fuelling this growing tendency to take to the streets. While the government and law enforcement agencies are trying to contain the situation, controlling mass gatherings remains a major challenge. They emphasise that, alongside administrative measures, political consensus is essential for a lasting solution.

According to Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) sources, demonstrators have been suddenly assembling on busy streets in the capital, chanting slogans and enforcing blockades. This has not only caused severe suffering for commuters but also increased traffic congestion and risk of a clash.

Officials note that although bans on rallies and assemblies have been repeatedly imposed under Section 29 of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance (Ordinance No. 3/76) in the interest of public movement and order, such measures have largely proved ineffective. As a result, police are compelled to remain on constant high alert.

Adviser for Home Affairs, Lieutenant General (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, stated, “Since the interim government assumed office, a total of 1,604 blockades have been enforced on roads and highways in Dhaka and surrounding areas. These were carried out by 123 organisations. We are making every effort to normalise the law and order situation, though it will take some time to bring it fully under control.”

Talebur Rahman, Deputy Police Commissioner (Media and Public Relations Wing) of DMP, explained, “The public notification banning gatherings is just one of our methods. It serves as a warning to the public. If assemblies are held despite this, we are often compelled to use force. The notification works as a safeguard for us.”

Criminologist Dr Touhidul Haque observed that although imposing bans is necessary, the tendency to ignore them is nothing new. “Many people simply do not heed the instructions of law enforcement agencies, and political influence is also at play. The authorities must act more firmly, disclose the identities of those defying the ban, and bring them under the law,” he said.