A tense situation unfolded in central Dhaka on Friday as two simultaneous demonstrations surrounded the Chief Adviser’s residence, Jamuna. Students staged a sit-in demanding justice and an impartial investigation into the killing of Shaheed Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, while government employees marched toward Jamuna calling for the publication and implementation of the ninth pay scale gazette. Law enforcement agencies, including police, RAB, and BGB, were deployed in large numbers around Shahbagh, the Intercontinental Hotel, and Kakrail intersections to maintain order.

Clashes erupted when police blocked the employees’ procession near Shahbagh. Water cannons, tear gas, and sound grenades were used to disperse the crowd, leaving several injured and spreading panic in nearby areas. Despite police resistance, protesters advanced toward Jamuna and continued their sit-in. Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali stated that gatherings near Jamuna were prohibited and that law enforcement remained on high alert to prevent unrest ahead of the upcoming election.

Six BGB platoons were deployed, and additional patrols and checkpoints were established. Employee leaders warned of tougher actions if their pay scale demand was not met soon.