Mobile phone traders began a sit-in on Sunday by blocking the Karwan Bazar intersection in Dhaka, pressing a set of demands. Police later dispersed them from the road using water cannons, sound grenades, and batons.

The demonstration was announced a day earlier by Mobile Business Community Bangladesh (MBCB). The group protested the implementation of the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR), demanded the release of those arrested over the attack on the BTRC building, and raised several other issues. Alongside the protest, the organization declared an indefinite shutdown of mobile phone shops nationwide.

Around 10:30 a.m., traders gathered at Karwan Bazar and sat on the roadway, chanting slogans as part of their sit-in. By about 11:30 a.m., police moved in and forcibly cleared the area with baton charges.

A section of the protesters returned to the street around noon. Police then deployed water cannons, followed by baton charges and sound grenades. Several individuals were detained during the operation.

Tejgaon police said the traders were attempting to block traffic and were removed to restore normal movement. A few protesters were taken into custody.

Abdullah Al Mamun, one of the demonstrators, said they support the NEIR system but believe it requires reform. He added that their demands had been raised repeatedly with the authorities but ignored, which led them to stage the sit-in. He questioned why police resorted to force against the protesters.Tensions between Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the Indian side have been simmering since last year. India had canceled its tour to Bangladesh last year, citing security concerns, and the situation escalated further after Mustafizur Rahman was left out of the IPL.
The T20 World Cup is scheduled to be held jointly in India and Sri Lanka next month. All of Bangladesh’s group-stage matches are set to take place in India. However, due to safety concerns, the Bangladesh team will not be traveling to India.