NEIR Protest Sparks Road Blockades, Clashes with Police in Dhaka

Mobile phone traders opposing the implementation of the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) blocked key intersections in Dhaka, including Karwan Bazar and Farmgate, as part of a nationwide shutdown on Sunday. The protesters—identified by authorities as traders involved in the illegal or “grey market” handset business—also blocked the Sonargaon intersection, halting traffic while demanding the suspension of NEIR and the release of arrested traders.

The road blockade began on the morning of January 4, leading to clashes between protesters and police. As tensions escalated, police first deployed water cannons, followed by baton charges, tear gas shells, and sound grenades to disperse the demonstrators and clear the roads.

Tejgaon Division Additional Deputy Commissioner Fazlul Karim said police brought the situation under control after removing the illegal mobile phone traders from the roads. Severe traffic congestion from Karwan Bazar to Banglamotor and Farmgate was reported initially, though the situation later eased following police intervention.

Several protesters were seen being taken away in police prison vans from the scene, while multiple sound grenade blasts were heard during the operation. According to sources, police detained several individuals after protesters attempted to resist dispersal, leading to chase-and-counter-chase incidents.

From early morning, police maintained a heightened security presence in the area. Meanwhile, men and women of various ages were seen participating in the blockade, holding placards and chanting slogans alongside the traders. Placards bore messages such as “We want a broker-free country, no mercy for the corrupt,” and “Arresting businessmen is a disgrace for the state.” Some protesters were also heard shouting incendiary slogans during the demonstration.

DBTech/MUM/EK/OR