Why Are Residents in Bangladesh Blocking Major Highways Against EC’s Demarcation of Constituencies?
Synopsis
In a dramatic display of dissent, thousands in Faridpur, Bangladesh, have taken to the streets for three days, blocking critical highways. Their protest against the Election Commission's decision to redraw constituencies highlights deep-seated local frustrations and raises questions about electoral fairness ahead of the upcoming elections.
Key Takeaways
Protests in Faridpur continue against EC's decision.
Residents demand reinstatement of Faridpur-4 constituency.
Highways blocked leading to severe traffic disruptions.
Calls for resignation of the EC echo among protestors.
Local sentiments highlight the struggle for political representation.
Dhaka, Sep 10 (NationPress) Thousands of residents in Faridpur district, Bangladesh, have blocked two major highways for the third consecutive day on Wednesday, protesting against the Election Commission’s (EC) decision to redraw parliamentary constituencies in advance of next year’s elections, as reported by local media.
The demonstrators obstructed the Dhaka-Gopalganj-Khulna and Dhaka-Bhanga-Barisal highways at eight locations in Bhanga Upazila, including Pukuria, Madhupur, Munsurabad, Hamirdi, Suyadi, and Bhanga Bus Stand, by uprooting trees and igniting tyres.
This blockade stranded countless vehicles on all sides of the highways, entirely cutting off communication between Dhaka and 21 districts throughout the nation.
The protests sparked after the EC released a gazette notification on September 4, which transferred Algi and Hamirdi unions from the Faridpur-4 constituency to Faridpur-2, comprising Nagarkanda and Saltha upazilas.
Locals expressed their fury, insisting that the constituencies of Faridpur remain unchanged and rejecting the transfer of their areas to another constituency.
“Our single demand is to reinstate the two cut unions into the Faridpur-4 constituency. We will persist with our movement until our demands are fulfilled. We also call for the resignation of the EC, the architect behind this decision,” a protestor was quoted by Bangladesh’s prominent Bengali daily Jugantor.
“We have been obstructing the areas of Pukuria, Suyadi, Munsurabad, Nowpara, Hamirdi, and Bhanga bus stand since morning. We will not accept the separation of our cherished two unions and the division of our homeland. Our demand is to return our two unions to Bhanga Upazila. If not, we will implement a rigorous plan,” stated Mofizul Rahman, another participant in the blockade.
On Tuesday, the protestors caused severe traffic jams by setting tires ablaze, toppling trees and electric poles, and erecting bamboo barricades along the highways.
“Due to the blockades in all directions, traffic has become chaotic. Even police vehicles are unable to navigate because of tree trunks on the roads. We are attempting to clear the highways, but persuading the demonstrators has proven difficult,” Rokibuzzaman, OC of Bhanga Highway police station, was reported by Dhaka Tribune.
Since the violent protests led to the overthrow of the democratically elected Awami League government under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina last year, Bangladesh has seen a surge in protests and widespread lawlessness.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that while the protests in Faridpur reflect significant discontent with the Election Commission's decisions, they also highlight the community's commitment to preserving their local identities and representation. The demands for political accountability resonate with broader themes of democracy in Bangladesh, warranting careful consideration and dialogue.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the protests in Faridpur?
The protests were triggered by the Election Commission's decision to redraw parliamentary constituencies, moving certain unions from Faridpur-4 to Faridpur-2, which angered local residents.
How long have the protests been ongoing?
The protests have been ongoing for three days, with residents blocking highways and causing significant traffic disruptions.
What are the protestors demanding?
The protestors are demanding that the two cut unions be reinstated in the Faridpur-4 constituency and have also called for the resignation of the Election Commission.
What methods are the protestors using to demonstrate?
The protestors have been blocking roads by setting tires on fire, uprooting trees, and erecting barricades.
What impact have the protests had on local traffic?
The protests have caused severe traffic congestion, stranding hundreds of vehicles and cutting off communication between Dhaka and 21 districts.
