In protest against Israel’s genocide in Gaza and in solidarity with the freedom-seeking people of Palestine, a massive crowd began gathering at Dhaka’s Suhrawardy Udyan from Saturday morning (April 12) as part of the “March for Gaza” programme.
The rally, organised under the banner of Palestine Solidarity Movement Bangladesh, is officially scheduled to begin at 3pm.
However, processions—large and small—have been arriving at the historic venue since early morning from various parts of the capital and beyond.
Protesters are marching toward the grounds from areas including Shahbagh, Doyel Chattar, and Nilkhet near Dhaka University. Thousands of students and citizens have already assembled.
Many marchers are seen carrying Bangladeshi and Palestinian flags along with protest placards. In a symbolic gesture of solidarity with the Palestinian resistance, several participants are wearing checkered keffiyehs around their necks.
Organisers have stated that the protest rally will continue from afternoon until evening. They expect hundreds of thousands of people from across the country to take part in the event.
Leaders of BNP, Jamaat, NCP and other political parties are scheduled to address the rally.
Security measures have been significantly heightened in the capital to ensure the event remains peaceful, The military and other law enforcement agencies have been deployed at various points across the capital.
The organising committee has also issued a set of guidelines for participants to follow.