Awami League’s Torch Procession in Shariatpur Alarms Administration

Local Correspondent | April 20, 2025

Across the country, Awami League processions are now a regular sight, with disgruntled members staging protest marches. Following this trend, leaders and activists of the Awami League held a procession in Shariatpur as well.

On Saturday evening, they brought out a procession in the Joynagar area of Sadar Upazila. Following the march, the local administration has become alert. It has been reported that they are investigating who participated in the procession.

This was the first public program in Shariatpur since the political shift on August 5 last year. Awami League, Chhatra League, Jubo League, Swechchhasebak League, and other affiliated organizations participated confidently, chanting slogans like “Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu.”

The video of the torch procession spread across social media. In the video, hundreds of people can be seen marching with torches. Some participants had their faces covered with masks while chanting slogans about Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Bangabandhu, and Father of the Nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

The official Facebook page of the Awami League also shared the torch procession video on Saturday night.

Following the procession, leaders from movements like Baicha, BNP, and various political parties expressed their reactions on Facebook through posts.

A senior leader of the Shariatpur District Awami League, speaking on condition of anonymity, told the media that various programs are being organized by the Awami League nationwide, particularly to bring Sheikh Hasina back to power. As part of this, Awami League leaders, activists, and supporters at different levels organized the torch procession in Shariatpur. He added that regular programs will now be carried out by the party.

Meanwhile, Masudur Rahman, Inspector (Investigation) of Palong Model Police Station in Sadar, said on Sunday that a torch procession was carried out by the Awami League last night. Police are investigating who participated and led the procession and will take legal action accordingly.

When asked on what basis legal action would be taken against participants of an Awami League march, as the party is not banned, the officer avoided answering.