Rajshahi, Jan 14 (V7N) — Trainee sub-inspectors (SIs) dismissed from the Bangladesh Police Academy in Rajshahi’s Sardah on charges of breaching discipline have entered the second day of a hunger strike to death, demanding their reinstatement. The protest is being held near Usmani Udyan, opposite Gate No. 1 of the Secretariat.

The dismissed cadets announced their hunger strike at a press conference on Monday afternoon and began their demonstration shortly thereafter. They claim the dismissal was unfair and are demanding immediate action to restore their positions.

Earlier, the cadets held a peaceful sit-in on January 5 and 6 in front of the Secretariat, seeking justice. They met with the Home Secretary, who assured them that their grievances would be addressed. However, as no resolution had been provided by January 12, the group resumed their protest on January 13.

A total of 310 trainee SIs, part of the 40th Cadet SI/2023 batch, were dismissed from the Bangladesh Police Academy in October 2023. The decision followed an incident during the closing parade of the 40th BCS (Police) Professionals Batch. According to academy authorities, during a break in the parade, the trainees rejected their provided breakfast, caused disruptions by making noise, and insulted academy officials. They allegedly left the training ground without permission, creating what was described as an “extremely chaotic environment.”

The dismissed cadets argue that their actions were misinterpreted and that the decision to discharge them was overly harsh.

The protesting former trainees are urging the government to review their case and reinstate them to complete their training. "We want justice. Our careers and dreams have been shattered," one protester said.

The hunger strike has drawn attention to the Secretariat area, with growing public interest in the outcome of their demands. Authorities have yet to make an official statement regarding the ongoing protest.

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