Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka, witnessed heightened tension as paramilitary forces, including the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), the police’s Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit, and the elite Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), were deployed around the secretariat complex. These measures followed days of protests and a nationwide strike by civil servants and teachers against the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

Security was tightened in response to growing unrest sparked by the newly issued Public Service (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025. This ordinance allows government employees to be dismissed through a mere show-cause notice without formal departmental proceedings, a move workers have decried as draconian and unconstitutional.

Strike by Teachers Adds To Political Turmoil

The nationwide strike by primary school teachers has been uneven across Bangladesh. In Dhaka, areas like Sutrapur, Demra, and Gulshan saw partial participation, with teachers continuing classes but skipping administrative responsibilities. In contrast, cities such as Chattogram and Rangamati experienced full-scale strikes, with teachers completely abstaining from duties. Meanwhile, Rajshahi and Rangpur witnessed partial participation, and Barishal remained largely unaffected, according to NewAgeBD. These protests have intensified the political uncertainty in the country, which has seen rising crime and violence since the Yunus-led interim government took office in August 2024.

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Government Workers Demand Withdrawal Of 'Black Law'

On Tuesday, government employees marked the fourth day of continuous protest, converging outside the Secretariat complex. Under the banner of the Bangladesh Secretariat Officers and Employees United Council, they demanded the immediate withdrawal of what they call a “black law.” They raised slogans such as “The fire has been lit in our blood,” “Abolish the unlawful black law,” and “Unite 18 lakh workers.”

Protesters vowed to continue until the law is repealed, rejecting negotiations or compromise with the administration. The ordinance, signed by the President on Sunday, empowers the government to dismiss employees for four types of disciplinary breaches without due process, sparking accusations of authoritarian overreach.

Access Restrictions And Press Ban 

As the protest swells, the home ministry issued a directive barring media and non-essential visitors from entering the Secretariat. Employee unions criticised the ban as undemocratic and an attempt to stifle dissent. According to Prothom Alo, security agencies remain on high alert amid fears of escalation.

According to the Dhaka Tribune, the deteriorating law and order situation has fueled public demand for a return to an elected government. Many believe that only a fully mandated administration can restore public trust and bring an end to the current unrest.

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