Police on Tuesday claimed to have thwarted attempts by supporters of the banned Awami League to organize rallies, processions and public gatherings in Dhaka on the party’s 77th founding anniversary, following one of the largest security operations mounted in the capital in recent months.
Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Mosleh Uddin Ahmed said law enforcement agencies acted on intelligence indicating that Awami League activists and supporters planned to stage demonstrations at different locations across the city despite the ban on the party’s activities.
“We had information that rallies, processions and gatherings could be organized in various parts of the capital centering the founding anniversary. Police have so far foiled those plans,” he told reporters after inspecting security arrangements at Hussaini Dalan ahead of Holy Ashura.
The commissioner said police significantly tightened security across the capital, particularly at key entry points, through expanded checkpoint operations, additional pickets, mobile patrols and plainclothes surveillance.
As part of the operation, law enforcers also conducted raids at suspected hideouts, including hotels and messes, and detained a number of Awami League leaders and activists.
The government’s security response came amid concerns that attempts to mark the anniversary could trigger unrest or challenge the ban imposed on the former ruling party.
Founded on June 23, 1949, the Awami League is one of Bangladesh’s oldest political parties and played a leading role in the language movement, the autonomy struggle and the Liberation War.
The party, however, has remained under intense pressure since losing power following the political upheaval of 2024, with its organizational activities now prohibited.
Mosleh Uddin alleged that those attempting to organize gatherings intended to create disorder and embarrass the government.
“We hope they will not be able to organize any procession, rally or gathering during the remaining hours of the day,” he said.
The DMP chief also linked recent security concerns to a cocktail bomb explosion that occurred during a procession associated with Awami League supporters.
Police have filed a case and arrested several individuals in connection with the incident.
“The use of explosives suggests there may be plans for sabotage. While the investigation is continuing, the incident has reinforced our concerns,” he said.
He added that surveillance and security operations would remain in place to prevent anyone from entering the capital to carry out acts of sabotage or organize unauthorized political gatherings.
The anniversary passed under an unprecedented security blanket, with authorities determined to prevent any public show of strength by supporters of the banned party.