A Shahbagh protest at Dhaka’s Shahbagh intersection descended into violence on August 1, 2025, as two groups claiming to represent the “July Warriors” clashed over the proposed July Charter. The demonstration, which began on July 31, saw hundreds of protesters, including those injured in the July uprising, block the busy intersection to demand swift finalization of the charter, which seeks recognition for those killed and injured during recent protests, alongside state support for their families.
Details of Shahbagh Protest
Tensions escalated on Friday evening when a group identifying as the “authentic July Warriors” confronted the original protesters, accusing them of being imposters and causing public inconvenience. The clash disrupted traffic further, with police resorting to baton charges to disperse both groups, restoring movement by late evening. Posts on X reflect public frustration, with some alleging the protest was infiltrated by hired individuals to sow chaos, though these claims remain unverified.
The blockade, ongoing for over 30 hours, caused significant congestion in Dhaka, forcing commuters to navigate alternate routes. The charter, outlined by the group July Joddha Songshod, calls for declaring the deceased as “July Martyrs” and providing lifelong healthcare and employment support for survivors. Despite the unrest, the National Consensus Commission has yet to finalize the charter, fueling further agitation among demonstrators.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August. 2nd, 2025
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