Protesters identifying themselves as ‘July fighters’ have blocked the Shahbagh intersection in the capital, demanding the July charter. As a result, traffic movement in and around Shahbagh has come to a complete standstill.

The blockade began around 10:30 am on Thursday (July 31), following a gathering in front of the National Museum.

In response to the demonstration, additional police personnel have been deployed in the Shahbagh area.

Meanwhile, the National Consensus Commission aims to finalise the July Charter by Thursday, marking the completion of the second phase of discussions. However, talks with political parties to build consensus are still ongoing.

The main point of contention is a provision in the draft charter that requires proposed reforms to be implemented within two years of forming a government through elections. Jamaat-e-Islami, the National Citizen Party (NCP), and Islami Andolon Bangladesh have raised objections to this clause.

While the BNP has expressed general agreement with the draft, several other parties insist that the July Charter be placed within a legal framework to ensure its implementation. They argue that without such guarantees, the entire reform process could face uncertainty.

Meanwhile, the July Fighters have stated that the charter is not merely a demand but a right. They have vowed to continue their movement until their demands are met.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Shahbagh Police Station, Khalid Mansur, confirmed that traffic in and around Shahbagh has been suspended due to the blockade.