ছবি: Photo: Collected
Dhaka, February 17 – Injured participants of the July mass uprising staged a demonstration at Shahbagh intersection, demanding rehabilitation and compensation. The protesters, many of whom sustained severe injuries during the movement, blocked the road leading towards Banglamotor around 2:00 PM, causing disruption to vehicular movement.
According to reports, the demonstrators had gathered at Shahbagh since 11:00 AM. They had set a deadline until 2:00 PM for government representatives to engage in discussions regarding their demands. As of the latest updates, they remained on the streets, chanting slogans to press for their demands.
Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Shahbagh Police Station, Khaled, stated that the injured individuals were staging their protest on the road in front of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). However, traffic on other lanes of the intersection remained unaffected.
Among the key demands of the protesters is the categorization of the injured into two groups. Those who have suffered permanent disabilities and lost their ability to work seek a monthly allowance of Tk 20,000, along with a one-time compensation package. Additionally, they demand that a responsible member of their family be provided with vocational training and job placement in government or semi-government institutions.
For those who have recovered and regained their ability to work, the demonstrators are calling for a monthly stipend of Tk 15,000, a one-time financial grant, and employment opportunities in government or semi-government sectors.
Another major demand is the enactment of a special protection law to ensure the security of the injured and families of those who lost their lives in the mass uprising. The law should include stringent penalties against threats, harassment, or any attempts on the lives of the injured or the families of the deceased.
Additionally, the protesters have called for mental health counseling for the injured and bereaved families, measures to prevent harassment, and the establishment of a toll-free helpline for addressing grievances and providing necessary assistance.
As the protest continued into the afternoon, authorities remained on high alert, monitoring the situation closely to prevent any escalation. Government officials have yet to make any official statement regarding negotiations or potential measures to address the grievances of the demonstrators.
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