Thousands of leaders and activists of three youth affiliates of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) gathered in Dhaka's Nayapaltan area on Wednesday for a rally demanding the establishment of youth rights.

The rally, jointly organized by Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal and Chhatra Dal, began drawing crowds from 10am, hours ahead of the scheduled start this afternoon. 

The event is part of a month-long youth mobilisation campaign under the slogan "Rally for the Establishment of Youth Rights."

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is expected to address the gathering virtually from London as the chief guest.

Supporters arrived in processions from various wards and police stations across the capital, while groups from Sylhet, Faridpur and Mymensingh were also seen converging on Nayapaltan. 

The area around the BNP’s central office was filled with the sound of patriotic songs and party anthems played over loudspeakers. 

Banners, slogans, party flags and T-shirts featuring the faces of BNP founder Ziaur Rahman and current leaders added a festive, if tense, atmosphere.

The rally site was under tight security, with members of law enforcement deployed in and around Nayapaltan to maintain order.

The three BNP wings have been holding similar events across the country throughout May in a bid to engage younger voters and highlight issues such as unemployment, political repression, and the need for democratic reforms. Previous gatherings were held in Chattogram, Khulna, and Bogura.

BNP leaders say the events aim to amplify the voices of youth and build momentum for a broader movement to challenge the current government’s policies.

MN/SMS