Dhaka, Feb 13 (V7N) – Police forcibly removed protesting primary school teachers who had blocked Shahbagh Road, using lathicharge and water cannons to disperse the demonstrators. Several protesters were reportedly injured during the clash.

The incident occurred on Thursday (February 13) when job-seeking teachers, who have been protesting for the 8th consecutive day, took to the streets in front of the National Museum, some wearing shrouds as a symbol of their desperation. Despite initial attempts by police to chase them away, the demonstrators reoccupied the road, prompting law enforcement to use water cannons and batons. Eventually, traffic movement resumed after the protest was quelled.

Reason for the Protest

The demonstrators claim that they were recommended for appointment under the 2023 recruitment process, but while the first two phases of recruits have already joined their positions, appointments for 6,500 teachers in Dhaka and Chittagong divisions have been suspended for six months.

The delay stems from a High Court order issued after 31 candidates filed a writ petition alleging quota-related irregularities in the recruitment process. The High Court subsequently halted the appointment of the affected teachers. In response, the Department of Primary Education has filed an appeal against the ruling, but the issue remains unresolved, leaving thousands in uncertainty.

With the recruitment process stalled, the teachers have vowed to continue their movement until their demands for immediate appointment are met.

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