As part of commemorating the anniversary of the July uprising, two political groups—National Citizens’ Party (NCP) and the nationalist student wing Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal—are set to hold rallies in Dhaka on Sunday (August 3).

Chhatra Dal will organize a student rally at the Shahbagh intersection, while the NCP plans to gather at the Central Shaheed Minar to demand the declaration of a “July Manifesto and Charter.”

According to party sources, NCP will announce its “National Declaration” during its gathering, scheduled from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Chhatra Dal’s rally is expected to run from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, commemorating the first anniversary of what it calls a public uprising, along with themes of mourning and victory.

Meanwhile, the cultural group Saifum Shilpogoshthi is continuing its four-day “July Awakening” cultural festival, with today marking the third day. Events are being held from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Due to these overlapping programs, law enforcement agencies have ramped up security throughout the capital. Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has announced traffic diversions and restrictions in key areas to manage congestion. Some public transportation routes have been limited for the day.

Chhatra Dal has mobilized nearly 90 organizing teams and invited participation from across the country’s districts and metropolitan regions. BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to address the gathering virtually from London. Families of those killed or injured in the July events are also expected to attend. The organization has issued an apology in advance for potential traffic disruptions.

The student group has outlined six key instructions for its participants:

• No banners, placards, or festoons allowed
• All units must remain present throughout the rally

• Emergency vehicles like ambulances must be given full access, especially via the alley between Katabon and PG Hospital

• No Chhatra Dal vehicles may enter Dhaka University premises

• No personal demonstrations or processions toward the rally site

• All units must clean their designated spots after the rally ends

On Saturday, NCP convenor Nahid issued a statement acknowledging the inconvenience the rally might cause. He noted that HSC exams are taking place on the same day, along with another student rally, and that traffic congestion is likely due to the overlap.