Polytechnic students postpone nationwide rail blockade

Students of polytechnic institutes protesting with a six-point demand have agreed to sit for a meeting with the education adviser and have postponed their railway blockade programme. 

The announcement was made in a video message posted last night on the official Facebook page of Karigori Chhatra Andolon Bangladesh, the leading body of the ongoing movement.

Central representatives Masfik Islam and Zubayer Patwary confirmed the decision to Samakal and said future programmes would be determined based on the outcome of the meeting.

In the video, Masfik Islam stated, "The meeting will lead to a final decision regarding our six-point demand and other associated issues. Based on the outcome, further programmes will be announced for all polytechnic institutes across the country. Until the meeting concludes, all ongoing activities will remain suspended."

Zubayer Patwary added, "Certain third parties and ill-intentioned groups are trying to misrepresent or hijack our movement. We urge everyone to remain vigilant and clearly define your stance. Do not engage in any unethical activities. Our movement is not against the government; we aim to work with the government to implement our demands."

On Wednesday morning, polytechnic students across the country launched a road blockade. During the demonstration in Cumilla, clashes with police and the military reportedly left 35 students injured. The protests resulted in severe traffic congestion on major highways nationwide.