A clash broke out on Friday afternoon between law enforcers and a group of protesters identifying themselves as “July Warriors” on the premises of the Jatiya Sangsad.
The protesters said that the much-anticipated July Charter was not enough to protect them and for the rehabilitation of the injured ‘July Warriors.’
Witnesses said several vehicles, including police cars, were vandalized during the incident.
The clash also resulted in injuries to several protesters.
The demonstrators, under the banner of July Martyrs’ Families and Wounded Fighters, began gathering at the South Plaza in the morning. Tension flared when police tried to disperse them after 1:00 pm.
As the clash escalated, protesters threw bricks and stones at police, who responded with tear gas and sound grenades to disperse the crowd.
By around 2:00 pm, police had taken full control of the Parliament area and surrounding roads. Vehicular movement later resumed partially. Law enforcers conducted searches around the venue and tightened security on nearby roads, including Manik Mia Avenue and Khamarbari.
Earlier in the morning, the protesters took position in front of the stage prepared for the signing ceremony with their various demands.
They had been demonstrating outside the Parliament complex since Thursday night.
The July Charter Signing ceremony is scheduled to take place at 4:00 pm at the South Plaza, with leaders from several political parties expected to attend. However, the NCP has announced it will not join the event.
Additional police forces and the army have been deployed to maintain order, according to officials on site.