In pictures: Bangladesh protests turn violent
- Published
Hundreds of thousands of Islamists descended on the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka to call for a stricter interpretation of Islamist values.
But the protests turned violent, and police fought running battles with the activists throughout most of Sunday and into Monday.
Activists built barricades and set fire to vehicles and shops in the city's central business district.
Police used tear gas, rubber bullets, stun grenades and batons to try and disperse the protesters.
At least 10 people were killed and more than 60 wounded during the clashes. Many protesters fled in panic and police searched surrounding buildings for any who were hiding.
The organisers of the demonstration, Hefazat-e Islam, want a new blasphemy law and greater segregation of men and women. The government has rejected its demands, describing Bangladesh as a secular democracy.
- Published6 May 2013