Students break police barricade, protest outside Indian Assistant High Commission in Khulna
Additional police forces were deployed in the area
Leaders and activists of several student organisations staged a protest outside the Indian Assistant High Commission office in Khulna this afternoon (18 December) after breaking through police barricades.
The protest took place on Shamsur Rahman Road, where demonstrators gathered after marching in processions from different parts of the city. The protesters initially assembled at Royal intersection before advancing towards the Assistant High Commission office.
Tension briefly escalated when police set up barricades near the office to stop the procession. At one point, protesters broke through the first barricade and moved forward, eventually taking position in front of the Indian Assistant High Commission premises.
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During the demonstration, participants chanted slogans accusing India of interference in Bangladesh's internal affairs. They carried national flags as well as banners and placards, claiming that India's policies and statements pose a threat to Bangladesh's sovereignty.
Additional police forces were deployed in the area, and law enforcement officials repeatedly urged the protesters to disperse to maintain order.
However, no clashes or injuries were reported.
Khulna Metropolitan Police (KMP) Deputy Police Commissioner (South) Tajul Islam said police had set up multiple layers of barricades for security purposes.
"After breaking the first barricade, the protesters gathered near the courthouse and chanted slogans. They were unable to cross the second barricade. There was no serious confrontation. After staying for a while, they left, and the situation is now under control," he said.
Traffic movement on Shamsur Rahman Road and nearby areas was disrupted for some time due to the protest, but later returned to normal.
