Clashes erupt between student factions at Begum Rokeya University over exhibition photos
Photo Collected
Tensions flared at Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur on Monday evening as violent clashes erupted between activists from the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Islami Chhatra Shibir. The confrontation, characterized by running battles, stone-throwing, and the hurling of chairs, left several individuals injured and placed the campus in a state of high alert for several hours.
The conflict stemmed from a campus exhibition organized by Shibir, titled “July against July’s Oppression.” Trouble began when JCD members demanded the removal of specific banners from the display, which featured photographs labeled as victims of “extrajudicial killings.” According to eyewitnesses, the dispute rapidly escalated from verbal arguments into physical altercations involving sticks and debris.
Shibir’s university branch office secretary, Shibli Sadik, claimed the JCD activists demanded the removal of banners featuring convicted war criminals, arguing that the inclusion of such figures was inappropriate. Sadik alleged that the JCD faction initiated the attack without consulting university authorities. Conversely, JCD unit president Md. Yamin accused Shibir of provocative displays, asserting that the posters in question included figures who were historically opposed to the country’s liberation. Yamin further alleged that Shibir brought in outside reinforcements to escalate the situation, stating that the JCD would not compromise on matters related to the history of the liberation movement.
By late Monday night, the two groups remained in a tense, standoff position, with Shibir members positioned near the university’s main gate while JCD activists gathered near the mosque at the Park Mor area. Police arrived on the scene shortly after the violence was reported to restore order.
University Proctor Ferdous Rahman stated that authorities are currently reviewing video footage to identify those responsible for the violence. He pledged that a formal investigation committee would be formed to ensure disciplinary action is taken. According to Rafiqul Islam, officer-in-charge of the Tajhat Police Station, the environment was brought under control by late night, with university administration officials, including the Vice-Chancellor, meeting with the leaders of both student organizations to facilitate a resolution.
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