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Students blocked the Science Laboratory intersection in the capital on Tuesday, demanding the resignation of Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Haque Milon over the government’s decision to hold Monday’s HSC and equivalent examinations despite heavy rainfall, widespread waterlogging and flooding in several parts of the country.
The blockade began at around 11:40 am, when students from Dhaka College and several other educational institutions occupied the Dhanmondi-to-New Market Road at the Science Lab intersection, disrupting traffic.
On the ground, students started gathering in the area shortly after 11:30 am before moving onto the road.
The blockade brought traffic on the route to a standstill, causing severe congestion in surrounding areas. Many commuters were seen walking to their destinations.
During the protest, students chanted slogans including, “One demand, one call—Milon must resign,” “The authorities must take responsibility for the suffering,” and “No exams amid floods and waterlogging.” Many also carried placards calling for the postponement of the examinations and Milon’s resignation.
The protesters alleged that the authorities ignored adverse weather conditions and the flood situation before deciding to proceed with Monday’s examinations.
As a result, many candidates across Dhaka and other parts of the country faced significant hardship in reaching their examination centres due to waterlogged roads, severe traffic congestion and transport disruptions.
Rabbiul, a student of Dhaka College, said they were not opposed to the examinations themselves but objected to holding them without ensuring equal access for all candidates.
He said many students from flood-affected areas were unable to reach their centres under normal conditions.
Another protester, Rabbi Mia of Dhanmondi Ideal College, said the Education Ministry could not avoid responsibility for the hardships faced by students.
He called for accountability and urged the authorities to give greater importance to students’ concerns.
Meanwhile, security was tightened across the area ahead of the protest.
Additional police were deployed to prevent any untoward incidents, while law enforcement personnel remained on high alert at key roads surrounding the intersection.