Chattogram Port NCTI Lease Protest in Sylhet
A large-scale protest was held in Sylhet on Friday evening, demanding the cancellation of the lease agreement awarded to Dubai-based operator DP World for the management of the New Mooring Container Terminal (NCTI) at Chattogram Port. The demonstration, which included a procession and public meeting, was organized by various political and civic groups, including the democratic and anti-war alliance. The protesters gathered at Shaheed Minar Square in the city around 5 PM and marched through key areas such as Shuktara, Jahurul Haque Road, and Shahjalal Market before converging near the Sylhet DC office. During the rally, speakers strongly criticized the government’s decision to hand over the terminal operations to a foreign company, calling it detrimental to national interests and local employment. They alleged that the lease deal lacked transparency and proper consultation with stakeholders. The protest also expressed solidarity with victims of an attack on a program in Dhaka, condemning the violence and demanding justice. Leaders claimed that the agreement would negatively impact the livelihoods of thousands of local workers and port employees. The event concluded with a public meeting where resolutions were passed urging the authorities to immediately review and annul the NCTI lease contract. Police remained present throughout the demonstration to maintain order, though no major incidents were reported. The issue has sparked widespread debate across the country regarding foreign investment in critical infrastructure and the balance between economic development and national sovereignty. Opposition parties and civil society groups have called for broader discussions in parliament and public forums to ensure that such decisions align with the nation’s long-term strategic goals.
Key Highlights
- Protesters in Sylhet demand cancellation of DP World's NCTI lease deal at Chattogram Port.
- Demonstrators criticize the lack of transparency in awarding the contract to a foreign operator.
- The rally also condemned a recent attack in Dhaka and demanded justice for victims.
- Speakers warned the lease could harm local jobs and national sovereignty.
- Police maintained order during the peaceful procession and public meeting.
Source: bdnews24.com
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