Bangladesh opposition launches protest march over energy crisis

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Dhaka, Bangladesh: Thousands of opposition supporters launched a long march across Bangladesh on Saturday, piling pressure on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's government over acute shortages of cooking gas, electricity, and fertiliser.

The rally marks the first major street mobilisation against the government, which came to power in the nation of 170 million people six months ago. Crowds gathered at a public square in Dhaka before setting off on the first leg of the march toward the port city of Chittagong.

Addressing supporters, opposition leader Shafiqur Rahman declared that the movement aims to ensure cooking gas and restore electricity to every household.

Bangladesh has reeled from severe energy shortfalls, driven in part by international conflict in the Middle East.

The mobilisation comes a day after the arrest of a college student who allegedly insulted senior officials while venting frustration over soaring electricity bills. 

Critics condemned the detention as reflecting a growing government intolerance toward public dissent.

Akhter Hossen of the opposition National Citizen Party accused authorities of failing to supply essential fuel while suppressing speech, warning that the government would face serious consequences as protests continue along the route.