Authorities confirmed that BGB patrols have been intensified in areas where vehicles were torched and public property vandalised. Earlier, 14 BGB units were already on duty in Dhaka and adjoining districts as tensions mounted ahead of the November 17 verdict in the war crimes case against Hasina.
Protests by Awami League loyalists have grown more aggressive, with demonstrators demanding the withdrawal of what they call politically motivated charges against Hasina and the declaration of February as the election month. Clashes between protesters and police broke out on Friday, while opposition groups including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami held counter-marches across the capital.
The International Crimes Tribunal is set to deliver its verdict next week on allegations that Hasina ordered violent crackdowns during the 2024 student uprising—charges she has dismissed as fabricated. The prosecution has sought the death penalty for her and two former senior officials. Hasina, currently in India, has argued that the trial violates due process and urged the case be referred to the International Criminal Court.
Meanwhile, Dhaka’s political landscape remains fractured. Eight parties are demanding a referendum before elections, even as Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus announced that a nationwide vote on the July Charter constitutional reforms will be held alongside parliamentary polls. The proposal includes the creation of a 100-member upper house elected proportionally.
With the capital on alert, police and military presence has been strengthened around airports, government buildings, and courts. Authorities fear further escalation as rival parties intensify their campaigns and the verdict date approaches.
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