Dhaka, May 29 (V7N) — In a dramatic move, all jewellery shops across Bangladesh will remain closed for an indefinite period starting Thursday morning, following the arrest of Riponul Hasan, Vice-President of the Bangladesh Jewellers Association (BAJUS). The decision was announced by BAJUS in a press release issued on Wednesday evening.

According to the statement, Riponul Hasan was detained by police around 7:30 PM on Wednesday from his business premises in Tantibazar, Dhaka — the capital’s central jewellery hub. BAJUS has vehemently condemned the arrest, describing it as part of a "false and harassing case" filed against their leader.

In protest, the association has declared an indefinite nationwide shutdown of all jewellery businesses until Hasan is released unconditionally.

“All jewellery establishments across the country, including those in Dhaka, will remain closed indefinitely as a mark of protest and to press for the immediate and unconditional release of our Vice-President Riponul Hasan,” the statement read.

The association’s Acting President Gulzar Ahmed, General Secretary Badal Chandra Roy, and other central leaders have expressed deep concern over the arrest, labelling it unjust and politically motivated. They have demanded the immediate withdrawal of what they referred to as a "fabricated and harassing" legal case.

BAJUS urged the authorities to act swiftly to free Hasan, warning that the ongoing shutdown could have serious repercussions on the country’s gold and jewellery sector, which employs thousands and contributes significantly to the economy.

No official statement has yet been issued by the police or relevant law enforcement agencies regarding the details of the charges or grounds for the arrest.

This sudden development has sparked widespread concern among jewellers, traders, and industry observers, with many fearing prolonged disruption if the situation remains unresolved.

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