Online Report : Protesters have been staging a demonstration by blocking the key Shahbagh intersection in Dhaka for the second consecutive day on Friday demanding implementation of July Charter.

Hundreds of protesters gathered at the intersection and blockade it, causing severe traffic disruptions and public suffering across adjacent areas.

The demonstration, led by a platform called the July Warriors’ Council, began around 10:30 AM on Thursday and continued through Friday afternoon. Protesters are calling for legal recognition of the July Charter and a permanent law ensuring rights and support for families of those killed or injured during past political movements.

Despite heavy rain, demonstrators remained on the streets, chanting slogans and placing barricades to prevent vehicle movement. As a result, traffic came to a standstill at key connecting roads, including Katabon, Matsya Bhaban, and Hotel Intercontinental intersections.

Due to the blockade, vehicles were redirected from several nearby points, leading to long tailbacks and delays. Many commuters expressed frustration over the situation.

“This protest turned a one-hour commute into three. We support their cause, but ordinary people are suffering every day,” said a motorcyclist near Shahbagh.

Although Friday was a public holiday, many still faced difficulties reaching their destinations due to a lack of public transport and road access.

Protesters’ demands include official recognition of July martyrs and movement participants, lifetime honor, healthcare, and education support for injured individuals and families of the deceased, state responsibility for rehabilitation and employment of injured protesters, monthly allowances for affected families, legal support centers for victims, prosecution of those responsible for repression, under international standards and formation of an independent Truth and Justice Commission.

Speaking to the media, Masud Rana, chief organiser of the July Warriors’ Council, said, “We will not leave Shahbagh until our demands are fulfilled. The government must act now.”

Shahbagh Police Station officer-in-charge Khalid Monsur said that the protesters continued their sit-in into Friday, spending the night at the intersection despite bad weather.

The situation remained peaceful and under control, the OC added.

In the last few months, the July Warriors have organized multiple demonstrations to push for implementation of the charter, but protest leaders claim there has been no meaningful response from the government so far.

Authorities have urged commuters to avoid Shahbagh and use alternative routes until the blockade is lifted.