Protesters block Shahabag, Paltan over price hikes

Protesters blocked the Shahbag and Paltan area in Dhaka during the half-day strike called by Baan Ganotantrik Morcha, an alliance of leftist parties on Monday.

However, traffic movement remained mainly uninterrupted as the half-day general strike continued peacefully.

Members of the alliance, including, Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB), Bangladesh Samajtantrik Dal, Ganashanghati Andolon and Biplobi Workers party took out processions and took position at Paltan.

The strike was called in protest of the rising prices of commodities in the country including utility services and daily commodities such as edible oil, rice, lentils and onion.

Meanwhile, Pragatishil Chhatra Jote and Chhatra Union activists took out processions from TSC and joined the demonstrations at Shahabag, chanting slogans.

Transport services remain mostly uninterrupted during the hartal on Monday, March 28, 2020 Bangla Tribune

Transport services remained largely uninterrupted as per the Dhaka Road Transport Owners' Association assurance. However, traffic in and around Shahbag was disrupted due to the protests.

Moreover, law enforcers were seen stationed at strategic points to prevent any incidents of violence.

CPB General Secretary, told Bangla Tribune that people participated in the hartal, proving that they support the movement.

Saying that the hartal was that of the people, he called on everyone to join the protests.