Police dispersed teachers who were blocking the Shahbagh intersection in the capital by using water cannons, sound grenades and batons to demand the immediate appointment of 6,531 assistant teachers in the third phase of government primary schools in Dhaka and Chittagong divisions.
Earlier, the protesting teachers started a road blockade program at 12:30 pm on Monday. During this time, severe traffic congestion was created in the Shahbagh intersection area.
It was seen on the ground that when the police first asked the protesting teachers to leave, the teachers announced that they would continue the blockade program. Later, lathicharge, sound grenades and water cannons were used to disperse them. Several teachers were injured during this time. In addition, some were detained by the police.
The protesting teachers said, "We have taken to the streets with our legitimate demands. They have lathicharged us and thrown water cannons at us. We will not leave the streets until our demands are met."
Hasibul Islam, who came from Comilla, said, "The demands we have brought are not unreasonable. Many have given up other jobs to be appointed in the primary. Now, who will we go to if we are beaten on the street?"
As of 2:30 p.m., the protesters are still at Shahbagh intersection. However, limited traffic is operating.
