Girls end demo, more agitation to follow

Students of Home Economics College today blocked a key intersection in city for hours in pursuit of their demand to recognise the college as an institute of Dhaka University.

After blockading the Nilkhet intersection for four hours, they fell back around 1:30pm with an ultimatum to resume tomorrow morning if their demands are not met.

Meanwhile, the blockade on the key thoroughfare of New Market caused a huge tailback that gradually spread to major roads of Dhaka city.

A moment from the blockade demonstration of March 13, 2017. Photo: Prabir Das

The students withdrew after requests from Lalbagh zone police Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ibrahim and teachers of the institution led by Shabnam Sharmin.

“We will not rest until our demand is met,” said a student Munni Akhter. “We will resume our demonstration tomorrow morning if our demands are not met.”

The students of all-girls Home Economics College have been demonstrating for the last eight years over this demand. They have, several times, blocked roads in a bid to press the government.

Students of Home Economics College chanting slogans during the demonstration. Photo: Prabir Das

Their other demands include autonomy of the college, transport and library facilities, quality education, proper accommodation and appointing adequate number of teachers.