1 killed, 20 injured on third day of B'desh blockade

Dhaka, Nov 22 (UNI) A political activist was killed and 20 others were injured in clashes as the nationwide transport blockade in Bangladesh wreaked havoc on public life and the economy on the third day today.

Witnesses said thousands of political activists of Awami League led 14-party alliance of former opposition leader Sheikh Hasina crowded the streets of the besieged capital chanting slogans and singing popular songs demanding resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Justice MA Aziz for being biased to former ruling alliance of ex-Prime Minister Khaleda Zia.

Begum Khaleda Zia's all party student front also staged a big rally outside Baitul Mukarram National Mosque protesting the blockade and demanding announcement of the election schedule.

Although there was tension following the assembly of 14-party and 4-party supporters in central Dhaka, but the riot police and BDR personnel tackled the situation strongly by keeping the rival parties apart.

A report from northern Bogra said a pro-BNP youth activist was hacked to death in the town by rivals.

In capital Dhaka, at least 12 activists of Jatiya Party of former President Ershad were injured when BNP activists attacked their rally.

The witnesses said the blockade on the third day continued to batter normal life and businesses in the capital. Schools were closed and most cars and buses stayed off the roads, but rickshaws plied normally. A number of small shops were seen open in different areas.

The capital remained virtually cut off due to the blockade on highway-railway-waterway on the third day.

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