Clash erupts between JCD, Shibir at Ctg City College

Leaders and activists of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Islami Chhatra Shibir locked in clashes in phases at Government City College in Chattogram on Tuesday over a graffiti dispute.

The first round of clashes took place in the morning, followed by another in the afternoon, during which both groups used sticks and hurled brickbats at each other.

Authorities suspended internal classes and examinations to control the situation, though degree second-year and master’s examinations under the National University were held as scheduled.

According to sources, the clash stemmed from a graffiti on a college wall that read “student politics and Chhatra League-free campus.” On Monday night, a group of JCD activists led by its college unit joint convener Abdullah Al Mamun allegedly erased the word “student” and replaced it with “Gupto,” altering the message and triggering tension on the campus.

Vice-Principal Jasim Uddin said police brought the situation under control after the morning clash, and internal academic activities were suspended after 12:00pm.

However, the two groups again engaged in clashes in front of the college around 4:00 PM.

witnesses said that both sides were seen wielding sticks and throwing brickbats. They also alleged that police present at the scene remained largely inactive during the clash.

No immediate reports of casualties were available.

Kotwali Police Station officer-in-charge (OC) Md Aftab Uddin said additional police had been deployed, adding that details would be disclosed later.

AM