Dhaka, Feb 16 (V7N) – Police on Sunday used water cannons on a protest march of teachers heading towards the Secretariat demanding the withdrawal of a decision to cancel recruitment for the position of assistant teachers in government primary schools.
The protesters began their march in front of the National Museum at Shahbagh, Dhaka, at around 3pm. As they proceeded from Shahbagh through Dhaka University’s TSC towards the Secretariat, police stopped them at the entrance of Bidyut Bhaban on Abdul Gani Road.
Shortly before 4pm, police used water cannons on the protesters, but they continued their demonstration.
The protesters said they have been demonstrating on the streets for 11 consecutive days, adding that they will continue their sit-in until their demands are met.
Earlier, police had used force against the protesting teachers on multiple occasions.
On February 9, police used water cannons, sound grenades, tear gas, and batons against them.
On Saturday, water cannons were again used to disperse the protesters.
A protesting teacher said: "We are here with a just demand. The government has given us assurances but has not implemented them. We will stay here until our demands are met."
On the other hand, police said they intervened to prevent public suffering and to maintain law and order. Meanwhile, the protesters were still attempting to reach the Secretariat, and tensions remained high.
END/MSS/AJ
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