A group of people under the banner of "July fighters" blocked the Shahbagh intersection in the capital of Dhaka on Thursday, demanding immediate implementation of "July Charter" permanently.
The blockade led to a huge traffic jam in the surrounding areas including Karwan Bazar, Farmgate areas and Elephant Road.
Tariqul Alam Sumon, traffic inspector of Shahbagh zone said the protesters blocked the intersection from 10am and they are still on the street.
The demonstrators kept the area occupied causing significant disruption to traffic and public movement in one of Dhaka's busiest intersections.
Despite rain, the protesters continued their demonstration without interruption. During the protest, protesters chanted slogans such as "Take our blood if needed, but give us the July Charter," "No more stalling on July," "An interim government needs the July Charter," and "Abu Sayeed is inspired, the battle isn't over."
Their demands include official recognition of July martyrs and fighters, lifelong honour and welfare for the families of martyrs and the injured, and full state responsibility for medical treatment, education, rehabilitation, and employment for those affected.
They also demanded lifelong allowances for the injured and martyr families, formation of special legal protection and support centres, prosecution of those responsible for violence against July protesters according to international standards, and the formation of an independent Truth and Justice Commission.
Protesters said they would continue their programme until their demands are met and urged the authorities to take immediate action.
