On the day of the Awami League’s online-declared “lockdown” programme, an unusually high level of security was observed around House No. 32 in Dhanmondi, the historic residence of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation. From early morning, the area was placed under strict police surveillance, joined by activists from the ‘July Faction’, who maintained continuous patrols throughout the day.
Police patrol vehicles were stationed on both sides of the street, and barricades were set up at every entry point. Passers-by were being stopped, questioned, and searched — their bags, mobile phones, and even identity cards examined. The area resembled a restricted zone, where entry and exit were under constant watch.
A History of Repeated Attacks
Local residents reported that since early August, the historic premises have been attacked, vandalised, and looted multiple times. Several artefacts and pieces of furniture inside were damaged during recent incidents of violence and unrest. As a result, the site has now effectively been turned into a high-security zone under police control.
A witness told GLive News:
“There’s a sense of tension all around. You can’t walk through the area without being stopped — police and volunteers are checking everyone’s belongings.”
Public Questions the Necessity of Tight Security
The heavy deployment has sparked widespread debate on social media. Some citizens questioned the rationale behind guarding what is now largely a ruined structure, while others criticised the police’s random checks on civilians.
One online user wrote:
“Why are they guarding a house that’s already destroyed?”
Another asked:
“What’s the justification for checking people’s phones and bags?”
When contacted, a police officer on duty explained:
“We’ve received intelligence about potential provocations in the area. So we are taking maximum precautions to prevent any further incident.”
‘July Faction’ Activists on Patrol
Members of the ‘July Faction’, a pro-government activist group, were also seen actively patrolling the vicinity alongside police. They coordinated closely with law enforcement, speaking to residents and monitoring movements within the security perimeter.
A local shopkeeper described the atmosphere:
“It feels like living in a military camp. Anyone entering or leaving is questioned by both police and volunteers.”
Authorities Describe Measures as Temporary
While some residents supported the enhanced security as a necessary safeguard for a national monument, others felt it was excessive and caused unnecessary anxiety among the public.
An administrative spokesperson clarified:
“This is a temporary security measure. The restrictions will be eased as soon as the situation stabilises.”
The Historical Significance of House No. 32
The residence at 32 Dhanmondi Road stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in Bangladesh’s modern history. It was here that Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman lived and led the independence movement — and it was within these walls that he and most of his family members were assassinated on 15 August 1975.
Although the building now lies partially destroyed, it remains a sacred symbol of both national pride and collective sorrow. The ruins of Dhanmondi 32 continue to embody Bangladesh’s turbulent journey — a silent witness to its freedom, its tragedy, and its enduring reverence for the Father of the Nation.