Bangladesh: Tablighi Jamaat faction calls for nationwide protests Jan. 10

A faction of the Muslim reform and missionary group, Tablighi Jamaat, called for nationwide protests Jan. 10. Followers of cleric Maulana Zubair Ahmed will gather to demand action against a rival faction over deadly intergroup clashes in Tongi early Dec. 18 that killed four people and injured over 50 others. Organizers did not specify gathering times and venues, but activists typically hold marches at mosques, such as Dhaka's Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, and major intersections or public squares like Dhaka's Suhrawardy Udyan. Such demonstrations typically occur following congregational prayers in the afternoon; counterprotests are possible. Hundreds to a few thousand people could gather at each venue, especially in urban centers of Dhaka Division and other major cities.

Officials will likely maintain an increased security presence and impose traffic curbs near any large gatherings. Localized transport disruptions are likely, particularly if demonstrators hold street marches or road blockades. Police may use force, including batons and tear gas, to disperse unruly crowds. Authorities could refuse permission for events or implement temporary public gathering restrictions to prevent rallies. Police may also order localized movement curbs to control any violence. Activists could clash with police and/or rival group members. Local business closures are possible in case of significant violence.