MPO teachers temporarily suspend “March to Jamuna”

Leaders of MPO-listed non-government teachers and staff have temporarily suspended their planned “March to Jamuna” following a government call for dialogue.

A 10-member delegation is currently at the Secretariat to discuss their three-point demand with officials.

The protest, ongoing for five consecutive days, is led by the MPO Nationalisation Alliance. Their key demands include: 20% house rent allowance (minimum Tk 3,000), Tk 1,500 medical allowance, and Festival bonus raised to 75% of basic pay.

Alliance joint secretary Abul Bashar said the march has been halted until the delegation returns. Teachers continue their sit-in at Central Shaheed Minar.

Despite an earlier government offer to increase house rent by 10%, teachers insist on the full 20%. On Wednesday, the interim government had proposed a compromise, but the alliance rejected it.

Since October 13, classes at all MPO-affiliated institutions nationwide remain suspended, though teachers are present on campus. Protesters are maintaining their position under the open sky in Dhaka.

Clashes occurred on October 12 near the National Press Club when police attempted to disperse demonstrators, leaving several injured. Protests also escalated with a blockade at Shahbagh on October 14.

The government earlier raised the house rent allowance to Tk 1,500 and medical allowance remains at Tk 500. Festival bonuses, previously 25% twice a year, were increased to 50%, but protesters demand further revision.