Jagannath University Tightens Security Following Violent Student Clashes
Photo Collected
Security forces have been deployed across Jagannath University to secure the campus following violent clashes between student factions that left at least 50 people injured. Law enforcement officers were stationed at all major entry points on Wednesday, with the university administration ordering the main gates to remain locked as a preventive measure against further instability.
The unrest began Tuesday during a seminar titled “July Mass Uprising Day-2026.” The conflict was ignited when representatives from the Jagannath University Central Student Union (JOKSU), the National Student Power, and the Inqilab Mancha attempted to enter the university’s central auditorium. The group was protesting for the transfer of the second campus construction project to the military, the rapid implementation of temporary housing in Keraniganj, and improved medical services on campus.
Tensions escalated when university proctorial staff and members of the university’s Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) branch blocked the demonstrators from entering the venue. The confrontation turned physical outside the auditorium and later erupted into a broader brawl near the campus martyr monument. According to medical staff at the Dhaka National Medical Institute Hospital, at least 50 individuals sought treatment for injuries sustained during the altercations, including several prominent leaders from both JOKSU and the Chhatra Dal.
The campus remained tense throughout Wednesday morning, with a noticeable decline in the presence of students and faculty. The surrounding area, including Victoria Park and Shakhari Bazar, experienced an unusual lull in activity as police maintained a strict perimeter.
University Vice-Chancellor Professor Md. Rais Uddin has officially launched a four-member committee to investigate the violence. During an emergency press briefing held Tuesday, the administration appealed for calm and confirmed that enhanced security protocols would remain in place through Thursday.
Despite the administration’s call for restraint, the university branch of the National Student Power has announced plans for a protest march scheduled for Wednesday afternoon. Organizers stated they intend to hold a subsequent press briefing in front of the Rafiq Bhaban to address the ongoing situation.
0%
0%
0%
0%
