Staff Reporter :
In a significant demonstration of solidarity with the Palestinian people, a large-scale public gathering titled “March for Gaza” is set to take place today (Saturday) at Suhrawardy Udyan in the capital.
The event is being organised by the Palestine Solidarity Movement Bangladesh, a civil platform formed in response to what it describes as the “brutal genocide” being carried out in Gaza by Israeli forces.
Preparations at the historic venue are already underway, with stage construction progressing in advance of the event scheduled for 3:00 p.m. Organisers anticipate a diverse turnout – uniting people from both political and non-political backgrounds in what they claim will be the first such gathering of its kind in the country’s history.
The announcement comes amid increasing international condemnation of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. In a statement posted on social media on Friday evening, the organisers denounced the “unspeakable violence” inflicted on Palestinian civilians, including women and children, in full view of the global community.
“Religious sites, schools, hospitals, and essential infrastructure are being reduced to rubble by airstrikes. Yet, the 57 Muslim-majority nations, the OIC, and their collective economic and political influence have thus far failed to take decisive action,” the statement read.
Citing mass protests in cities across Europe and North America, the organisers positioned Saturday’s event as part of a broader international movement. They emphasised the importance of Bangladesh joining this global wave of peaceful, unified civic action.
The event will be presided over by Maulana Abdul Malek, Khatib of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, who is expected to deliver the keynote address.
To facilitate orderly participation, the organising committee has issued detailed instructions regarding entry routes to Suhrawardy Udyan. Processions will begin at 2:00 p.m. from five designated locations, converging at the main venue by 3:00 p.m.
Participants from Banglamotor are to enter via the Ramna Gate through Shahbagh. Those from Kakrail intersection will use the Engineers’ Institute Gate via Matsya Bhaban.
Attendees from Zero Point are instructed to enter through the TSC Gate via Doel Chattar. The Bakshibazar route will also enter via the TSC Gate through Shaheed Minar, while those from Nilkhet will proceed through the TSC Gate via VC Chattar.
Authorities have announced that the TSC Metro Station will be closed for the day. Special traffic arrangements have been made to ensure unobstructed access for students and examinees, who are advised to leave early and seek assistance from volunteers if required.
The organisers have also issued several key guidelines for participants: bring essentials such as water, umbrellas, and masks; maintain cleanliness; cooperate fully with law enforcement and volunteers; remain disciplined; and avoid displaying political insignia. Attendees are encouraged to carry only the national flags of Bangladesh and Palestine and to resist any disruptive attempts by miscreants.
“This is not merely a protest-it is a call to conscience, a stand with the oppressed,” the statement concluded. “Let us bring our families, friends, and neighbours.
Let us educate the next generation about the plight of the Palestinian people so that they may grow up committed to justice.”
The event is expected to be one of the largest public demonstrations of support for Palestine in Bangladesh to date.
