Bangladesh: Student activists plan to protest at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in Dhaka July 18

Student activists plan to protest at the south gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in Dhaka from 15:00 July 18 to denounce the implementation criteria of public sector job quotas. Similar demonstrations have been ongoing since early July, with clashes reported at recent rallies July 16, killing at least six protesters and injuring over 100 others. The gathering will likely draw hundreds to thousands of participants. Participants typically hold marches between Baitul Mukarram National Mosque and universities, major intersections, and public squares. Potential gathering sites include Dhaka and Jagannath university campuses, Raju Memorial Sculpture, and the Chankharpul, Farmgate, Motijheel, Nilkhet, Science Lab, and Shahbagh areas.

Officials will likely maintain an increased security presence near the protest and may use force, including baton charges and tear gas, to disperse unruly crowds. Authorities could implement enhanced restrictions, including temporary curbs on public movement. Localized transport disruptions are probable, particularly if demonstrators hold street marches or road blockades. Increased traffic congestion on Airport Road could cause flight delays at Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC). Railway and highway blockades are likely to impact routes to and from Dhaka. Clashes between police and activists are possible; protesters may also engage in arson and vandalism.