On the day of the Awami League’s online-declared “lockdown” programme, the historic House No. 32 in Dhanmondi, once the residence of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the Father of the Nation, witnessed an unprecedented security clampdown. From early morning, a large number of police officers, joined by activists of the ‘July Faction’, were seen patrolling and guarding the area with strict vigilance.
Unusual Security Measures
Barricades were placed at all entry points around 32 Dhanmondi. Police patrol vehicles circulated through the main road and adjoining lanes.
Bags, mobile phones, and even ID cards of pedestrians were being checked and questioned. The entire area appeared tense — almost resembling a restricted military zone.
A local resident remarked:
“Entering the 32 area now feels like crossing into a cantonment. The checking has been continuous since morning.”
A History of Repeated Attacks
According to local sources, since early August, the historic residence of Bangabandhu has come under repeated attacks, vandalism, and looting. Several artefacts and valuable furnishings inside the building were reportedly damaged.
Due to these incidents, the administration has effectively declared the area a “no-go zone”, enforcing strict police control.
Public Questions the Need for Such Tight Security
The heavy deployment has sparked widespread debate on social media.
Many users are asking:
“Why guard a house that has already been reduced to ruins?”
Others have commented:
“What’s the point of searching people’s bags and phones?”
A police officer in charge of the operation said:
“We have intelligence reports suggesting possible attempts to incite unrest. We’re taking maximum precautions to prevent any provocation.”
‘July Faction’ Activists Patrol Alongside Police
Alongside law enforcement, members of the ‘July Faction’ were also seen actively patrolling the area, speaking with locals and monitoring movements within the security perimeter.
A local shopkeeper told GLive News:
“The atmosphere is very tense. With police cars, volunteers and barricades everywhere, 32 Dhanmondi now feels like a fortified camp.”
Authorities Say It’s a Temporary Measure
Public reactions remain mixed. Some citizens welcomed the security reinforcement as necessary to protect a national monument, while others described it as excessive and fear-inducing.
A Dhaka Metropolitan Police spokesperson clarified:
“This is a temporary measure. The security restrictions will gradually be eased once the situation normalises.”
32 Dhanmondi — A Symbol of History and Emotion
The house at 32 Dhanmondi is not just a structure — it is a living witness to Bangladesh’s struggle for independence.
It was here that Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman made many of his most important political decisions, and it was here, on the tragic night of 15 August 1975, that he and most of his family members were assassinated — a night etched forever into the nation’s collective grief.
Though partially destroyed today, the site remains a sacred symbol of national memory and pride.
As one visitor poignantly said:
“32 Dhanmondi is not merely an address — it is the heartbeat of Bangladesh’s history.”