Traders of the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) Market held a human chain protest at Palashi intersection in Dhaka, accusing Mahabubul Haque, allegedly linked to the Awami League, of long-term extortion, intimidation, and illegal control of the market. The protesters claimed Haque and his associates have dominated the market for 17 years through threats and abuse, depriving ordinary shop owners of safety and fair business opportunities. They alleged that the 2017 market committee election was manipulated under coercion, allowing Haque’s panel to win unopposed. Traders further accused him of amassing wealth through extortion and illegal means, owning multiple shops under family names, and continuing intimidation ahead of the upcoming election. They demanded legal action against Haque, his disqualification from contesting the election, and a fair, transparent voting process. Haque denied all allegations, calling them false and claiming the protesters were not legitimate shop owners.