Hundreds of students from polytechnic institutes across Bangladesh staged a peaceful sit-in and human chain in front of the High Court in Dhaka on Sunday (May 18), demanding the cancellation of what they describe as an "illegal writ" filed by craft instructors.

The protest, organized by the Technical Students' Movement Bangladesh, began at 10:30 am near the Mazar Gate of the High Court. 

Students gathered to press their case ahead of a scheduled hearing on the craft instructors’ writ, which they claim undermines their interests.

“We are here to demand justice and the immediate cancellation of this unlawful writ,” said Mohammad Hasan, a spokesperson for the movement. “Our future is at stake, and we will not back down until our demands are met.”

The students announced their action at a press conference held at Dhaka Polytechnic Institute on Saturday, where they outlined a six-point list of demands. These include reforms to ensure fair treatment and opportunities for polytechnic students.

In solidarity with the central protest in Dhaka, students at polytechnic institutes nationwide held similar human chains and peaceful demonstrations on their campuses. 

Authorities reported no incidents of violence, and the protests remained orderly.

The sit-in reflects growing frustration among polytechnic students over policies they view as detrimental to their education and career prospects. 

SMS/