Bangladesh on edge before polls: Inquilab Moncho protesters clash with police outside Yunus residence

At least 50 people were injured after law enforcement used batons, tear gas, water cannon, and sound grenades to disperse demonstrators demanding justice for slain leader Osman Hadi.

The unrest unfolded outside the official residence of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, underlining growing political volatility as election day approaches.

Protests escalate near Chief Adviser’s residence

Tensions peaked when students and Inquilab Moncho activists attempted to march toward the state guest house Jamuna, the official residence of Yunus.

Police had erected barricades to block the procession, but demonstrators reportedly tried to force their way through, prompting a forceful response from security personnel.

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Witnesses and local media reports said police resorted to baton charges and fired tear gas shells to scatter the crowd.

Water cannons were also deployed, while sound grenades echoed through the area, intensifying panic and chaos.

In response, protesters were seen hurling brickbats, further escalating the confrontation.

Over 50 injured as protests turn violent

According to Bangladesh’s English-language daily Daily Sun, more than 50 protesters were injured and rushed to nearby hospitals.

The newspaper also reported that Inquilab Moncho Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber sustained what the group described as “bullet injuries” during the police action.

In a Facebook post, the organisation alleged that police opened fire as protesters attempted to besiege the chief adviser’s residence.

Authorities have not publicly confirmed the claim of live ammunition being used.

Earlier in the day, a separate protest by government employees demanding implementation of the 9th pay scale was also dispersed using batons and tear gas, adding to an already tense atmosphere in the capital.

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Osman Hadi's killing fuels renewed anger

Friday’s clashes were triggered by renewed demands for strict punishment of those accused in the murder of Inquilab Moncho leader Osman Hadi, who was shot dead in December.

His killing has remained a flashpoint, repeatedly drawing supporters and student groups onto the streets.

As protesters regrouped and attempted another march toward Yunus’ residence, police intervened again, leading to fresh clashes and injuries.

Election countdown raises stakes

The unrest comes just six days before Bangladesh votes in its general election, heightening concerns over stability and security.

With political tensions already high, the violence has added urgency to fears of further disruptions in the run-up to polling day.

Authorities have since tightened security across Dhaka, deploying additional police and paramilitary forces in sensitive areas.

Restrictions imposed around Jamuna

In response to the violence, areas surrounding the Jamuna Guest House have been placed under curfew.

All forms of protests have been banned near the chief adviser’s residence, and restrictions imposed on public gatherings in adjoining zones.

Officials said the measures were necessary to prevent further escalation as the election nears, though critics argue the crackdown risks inflaming tensions even further.