Security tightened as students march to education ministry

Security measures have been strengthened near the education building in the capital ahead of a 'long march' programme towards the Ministry of Education, as protesting students demand the postponement of ongoing HSC and equivalent examinations, the announcement of a new schedule, and the resignation of the Education Minister and the Minister for Primary and Mass Education. Students have also started gathering at the scene.

A large number of police personnel were seen deployed in front of the main gate of the education building around 2:45pm on Wednesday (July 15). Students have announced that they will hold a long march towards the Ministry of Education at 3:30pm.

Visiting the scene, it was seen that 10 to 12 students from BCIC College had taken position in front of the education building at that time. They said another group from their college was positioned on Mirpur Road. Students from various colleges will gather and take position in front of the education building.

Students said that after the HSC examinations ended, they have been protesting in various areas of the capital, including Uttara, Science Laboratory and Mirpur. According to the pre-announced programme, they will march from there towards the Secretariat.

Akash, a student of BCIC College, said they will continue their protest until their three demands are met. He also demanded justice for the alleged torture of protesting students.

Meanwhile, traffic movement has been disrupted on various roads in the capital, including Uttara, Science Laboratory and Mirpur, due to the protests. Slow movement and congestion have been created on several important roads.

Earlier, students had blocked roads and protested at Science Laboratory intersection in the capital and in various parts of the country with the same demands. As no announcement was made regarding the postponement of examinations by Tuesday, a 'long march' programme towards the Ministry of Education and the Secretariat was announced for Wednesday.