Students threaten secretariat march as protests against education minister intensify
Student protesters in Dhaka briefly paralyzed key city intersections on Wednesday, issuing an ultimatum for Education Minister A.N.M. Ehsanul Haque Milan to resign over ongoing systemic failures in the administration of HSC examinations. The demonstrators, who have been venting frustration over erroneous exam papers, poor testing standards, and the decision to conduct exams despite inclement weather and waterlogging, warned that failure to comply would trigger a "Long March to the Secretariat" on Thursday morning.
The protest culminated at the Shahbag intersection, where students occupied the road for approximately 90 minutes before clearing the area at 7:30 p.m. to alleviate public suffering. Rahat Ahmed, a student representing the protesters, stated that the group would pause their agitation for the night, but insisted that if the minister does not vacate his post by 10 p.m., they will gather at the Science Laboratory intersection at 10 a.m. on Thursday to initiate further action.
Tensions flared earlier in the day when groups of students marched toward the Ministry of Education. After initially blocking the Science Laboratory intersection, the demonstrators moved toward the Secretariat, only to be stopped by police barricades near the Education Building. Students gathered there expressed deep resentment, particularly regarding the minister’s handling of flawed physics exam papers. Critics argued that the government's proposal to award full marks to students who attempted incorrect questions failed to address the systemic incompetence that has jeopardized their academic futures.
The unrest extended to northern Dhaka as well, where students blocked the road in front of the BNS Center in Uttara, creating severe traffic congestion. Demonstrators there voiced additional grievances, citing derogatory remarks allegedly made by the minister toward students as further justification for his immediate removal. Participants emphasized that the protests are not merely about exam logistics but a broader call for accountability in the education sector.
By early evening, traffic flow began to normalize at Shahbag and other affected junctions as protesters retreated to prepare for potential escalation. As reported by local media, the movement has gained momentum across cities including Dhaka and Chittagong, reflecting widespread student dissatisfaction with the current leadership of the Ministry of Education.
