Protesting HSC candidates return to Uttara streets after exam

Students demanding the suspension of the ongoing HSC and equivalent examinations, publication of a revised exam schedule and the resignation of the Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister gathered on the streets of Uttara for a second consecutive day on Wednesday (July 15).

Shortly after completing their examinations, students began assembling at the BNS Center in Uttara before announcing a long march towards the Secretariat, in line with their previously declared programme.

The protesters said that continuous rainfall, waterlogging and flooding across several parts of the country have prevented many candidates from reaching examination centres on time, creating inequality among examinees.

They reiterated their three-point demand, calling for the immediate suspension of the ongoing examinations and the announcement of a revised schedule.

Sheikh Rifat, an HSC candidate from Uttara High School and College, said many students in flood-hit and waterlogged areas were facing severe hardship. "The authorities should suspend the examinations and publish a new schedule considering the difficulties faced by affected students," he said.

The gathering disrupted traffic in several parts of Uttara, including the BNS Center, Azampur and Jasimuddin areas, slowing vehicle movement and causing long tailbacks that left commuters stranded.

Traffic police and members of law enforcement agencies were deployed to maintain order, while security was also tightened in Uttara and around the Secretariat ahead of the planned march.

The latest demonstration follows Tuesday's nationwide protests, including road blockades in the capital's Science Laboratory intersection and other parts of the country.

Organisers had announced the long march after no decision to suspend the July 15 examinations was issued by Tuesday night.