Bangladesh opposition launches protest march over energy crisis

DHAKA: Thousands of opposition supporters embarked on a long march across Bangladesh on Saturday, putting pressure on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's administration over critical shortages of cooking gas, electricity, and fertiliser. This marks the first major street demonstration against the government, which assumed power six months ago in the South Asian nation of 170 million people.

Thousands of demonstrators, carrying banners and chanting slogans, began the march in a public square in Dhaka, heading towards the port city of Chittagong with similar rallies planned along the way. The protest, organized by opposition leader Shafiqur Rahman, aimed to ensure every household receives cooking gas and electricity.

Bangladesh has been grappling with severe shortages, partly due to the war in the Middle East, and there have been questions about the government's response to the crisis. The rally occurred a day after the arrest of a college student who allegedly insulted senior government officials while expressing frustration over high electricity bills.

Critics said this move demonstrated a growing intolerance for dissent. Opposition National Citizen Party member Akhter Hossen addressed the crowd, saying, "You have failed to supply gas, electricity, and fertiliser and are not allowing people to even speak up. You will face serious consequences."