27 Nov 2017 | 04:11 PM UTC
Bangladesh: Nationwide hartal Nov. 30 due to electricity price hike /update 1
Hartal (general strike) called for Thursday, November 30, following the announcement of increased electricity prices; protests likely
Event
Several small opposition parties (including the Communist Party of Bangladesh, Socialist Party of Bangladesh, and the Democratic Left Alliance of Bangladesh) have called for a nationwide hartal (general strike) on Thursday, November 30, due to a hike in electricity prices. The hartal is due to begin on Thursday morning at 06:00 (local time) and end at 14:00. Strike actions and protests will most likely be concentrated in the capital city of Dhaka, and widespread business closures should be anticipated in areas where the hartal is widely followed.
Increased security, transportation disruptions, and potential violence should be anticipated surrounding any demonstrations.
Context
The Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) announced the new prices of bulk and retail electricity on Thursday, November 23. The BERC increased power tariffs by 5.3 percent, after previously increasing them by 2.93 percent in 2016.
Advice
Individuals present in Dhaka are advised to avoid all public gatherings and demonstrations due to the likelihood of violence.
