Depositors of five merged Shariah-based banks staged a sit-in in front of Bangladesh Bank on Thursday morning, demanding the return of their deposits and cancellation of a profit reduction decision. The demonstration began around 10 a.m. and included slogans and speeches criticizing the central bank’s previous policy. Law enforcement took strict positions around the area to maintain order.

Speakers at the human chain alleged that a former governor of Bangladesh Bank decided to cut profits on deposits from the past two years, offering only a 4 percent government concession instead. They described the move as inhumane and unfair, claiming many depositors have been unable to withdraw their principal or profits for two years, leaving families in severe financial distress.

Protesters demanded full repayment of deposits with profits for 2024 and 2025 and called for normal banking operations at the unified Islamic bank. They warned that if their demands are not met, they will besiege Bangladesh Bank on March 12.