Shahbagh in turmoil over July Charter, blockade ongoing

July fighters are holding a sit-in program at Shahbag in the capital demanding the July Declaration, the July Charter and its immediate implementation as a permanent provision. Martyr family members have also taken up a position at Shahbag intersection with the same demand. They gathered at Shahbag around 11 am on Thursday (July 31). This brought traffic to a standstill. On the other hand, police and BGB have been deployed to strengthen security in Shahbag in view of the movement. According to the July fighters, the injured and martyred family members were forced to join the movement because the July Charter has not been issued yet. Despite repeated demands, no progress has been made. They say that the July Charter is not our demand, it is our right. The movement will continue until the demand is met. The July fighters have also warned that they will set up a temporary stage in Shahbag if the assurances regarding the July Charter are not fulfilled.