Clash during RMG protest: Police claim leftist leaders attacked first, injuring four cops
At least four policemen were injured in the incident
It was leaders of various leftists organisations who attacked police first during a protest by ready-made garment workers over unpaid wages and Eid bonuses near the Secretariat today (25 March), the Dhaka Metropolitan Police has claimed following criticism over the law enforcement agency's heavy-handed approach.
"At least four policemen were injured in the incident," DMP Ramna Zone Assistant Commissioner Abdullah Al Mamun told The Business Standard.
"The protesters were heading from Shram Bhavan towards the Secretariat, demanding their unpaid salaries and bonuses. At that time, when the police set up a barricade, some leaders of leftist organisations broke through the barricade and attacked the police," he said when asked about the clash during the protest.
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However, nearly 50 protesters, including Biplabi Chhatra Maitree President Dilip Roy, were injured in the clash, reports UNB citing police sources.
The police's use of force against the protesters – captured on video and photos – has faced severe backlash from netizens on social media platforms.
Around 500 workers of different garment factories, including TNZ Apparel Ltd, Apparel Plus Echo Ltd, Roar Fashion Ltd, Style Craft Garments and others, brought out a procession from Jatiya Press Club at noon, demanding payment of salary, Eid Bonus and maternity leave.
At one point, they tried to march towards the Secretariat, resulting in a clash with police.
Videos of the clash circulating on social media platforms show multiple policemen beating Dilip and other protesters, prompting strong criticism of police actions.
In another video, however, Dilip can be seen attacking a police officer on the head during an attempt to break through a barricade set up by the law enforcers.
Following Dilip's attack, police can be seen using batons on protesters.
