Fresh tension flared up in the capital’s Dhanmondi 32 area on Monday afternoon after a group of student protesters moved towards the historic site with two excavators, coinciding with the verdict day in a war crimes case against Sheikh Hasina. According to police, the group attempted to advance toward the remaining structure of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence with the intention of demolishing it.
Law enforcement personnel set up barricades at the entrance of Road 32, preventing the marchers from entering the restricted zone. As protesters tried to break through the barricades, clashes erupted, leading to a brief chase between the two sides. The protesters reportedly threw brick chunks, prompting police to fire sound grenades to disperse them. Several people were reported injured during the confrontation.
Amid the escalation, angry crowds vandalized at least three police vehicles. The unrest spilled over to nearby roads, creating panic among residents. Additional police units and army personnel were deployed to restore order. The situation gradually eased later in the evening, though tension remained in the area.
Police officials told reporters that the attempt to enter Dhanmondi 32 with heavy machinery was “provocative and unlawful.” They also said that any further attempt to damage the already-affected structure of Bangabandhu’s residence could pose significant security risks.
Residents of the surrounding neighbourhood expressed concern following the sudden outbreak of violence. Many said that protest processions had entered the area shortly after noon, and within minutes, the situation spiralled into chaos.
Monday’s events have rekindled debate over the future of the iconic property, once the residence of the Father of the Nation. Law enforcement agencies said the area will remain under close observation in the coming days.
