The Begum Rokeya University (
BRU) area in Rangpur has become a hotspot of unrest following the death of a student during a clash between
quota reform
protesters, police, and
BCL men on Tuesday.
The death of Abu Saeed, a 12th batch English Department student of BRU, has ignited protests across educational institutions in Rangpur. It was seen that the agitated students from the institutions have been gathering at the university's main gate with sticks and rods.
After hearing the death news of Abu Saeed, the agitated students broke the front gate of Vice-Chancellor Hasibur Rahman's residence and set fire to a vehicle parked in front of his house. In response, police fired eight blank rounds to disperse the crowd.
Earlier in the day, multiple rounds of clashes and chases occurred between the quota reform protesters, police and BCL activists. Eventually, police and BCL members entered the university premises but were later confined by the protestors at the main gate, turning the Park Mor area into a hub of loud slogans and protests.
Around noon, students from various educational institutions in Rangpur gathered in front of Rangpur District School. They marched from there to the gate of Begum Rokeya University, despite attempts by police to stop them.
When quota reform protestors occupied the university's main gate, police tried to disperse them. The confrontation escalated as protestors broke through police barriers, leading to violent clashes. Police fired rubber bullets and tear gas shells to control the situation, while protestors retaliated with stones and bricks.
Over 100 individuals, including 10 journalists, were injured in the ensuing chaos.
Later, BCL activists, armed with sticks, machetee, and other weapons, chased the protestors. The clashes continued for an extended period, with additional support from Jubo League, and Swechchhasebak League members from the city.
Eventually, the protestors' strong resistance forced them to retreat.
LY/SA
