Bangladesh Deploys Army in Six Districts to Prevent Banned Awami League Anniversary Protests

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Bangladesh’s interim government has requested the deployment of the military across several key districts to maintain public order and prevent potential unrest surrounding the upcoming anniversary of the now-banned Awami League. The Ministry of Home Affairs issued an official directive to the Armed Forces Division on Monday, calling for troops to be deployed under the “in aid to civil power” mandate from June 22 to June 30.

The government’s request targets Dhaka, Chittagong, and Gazipur metropolitan areas, alongside the districts of Narayanganj, Gopalganj, and Faridpur. According to the ministry, authorities have received intelligence that supporters of the banned political organization are planning unauthorized processions and demonstrations to commemorate the party’s founding on June 23. Officials expressed concern that these activities could lead to sabotage, public disorder, and significant threats to life and property.

The heightened security measures follow a series of clandestine protests organized by Awami League affiliates, including a recent incident in Gazipur where local youth wing activists were recorded issuing violent threats toward law enforcement officers. Following the July 2024 mass uprising that led to the collapse of the Awami League government, the interim administration led by Professor Muhammad Yunus officially banned the party’s activities in May 2025. This decision was formalized through an amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act, which allows the government to prohibit organizations involved in acts deemed harmful to national security.

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In tandem with the military deployment, the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced a comprehensive security grid across the capital. To prevent disruptions, authorities plan to blanket the city in a multilayered security perimeter. This operational plan includes the establishment of more than 200 tactical checkpoints throughout the city, with intensified monitoring at all entry and exit points to intercept suspected agitators.

DMP officials confirmed that over 18,000 police personnel, supported by specialized units, will be deployed to secure the metropolitan area. The government remains on high alert, citing the necessity of preventing any destabilization efforts by members of the banned party. District administrators in the affected regions have confirmed receiving instructions to coordinate with the military to ensure civilian safety throughout the nine-day period.