Narayanganj Chhatra-dal Shibir clash, 20 injured

At least 20 people were injured in a clash between the leaders and activists of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Islami Chhatra Shibir in Narayanganj on Wednesday.

The incident took place in Chashara and College Road areas of the city around noon. The two groups engaged in repeated chases and counter-chases for nearly an hour. Later, police brought the situation under control.

Among the injured are Shibir's Tolaram College unit President Imdadul Haq Shuvo, Secretary Tamim, Finance Secretary Juhas, City Unit President Amit Hasan, and Finance Secretary Ariful Islam. Besides, JCD activist Tuhin Ahmed was also injured. The identities of the other injured could not be confirmed immediately. They were admitted to a local government hospital.

Amit Hasan, president of Narayanganj city unit Shibir, said, "A program regarding July events was going on at our city office. At that time, we received news that JCD activists beat up the president, general secretary, and finance secretary of Tolaram College unit.

When we went to rescue them, JCD activists attacked us with domestic weapons. About 15 to 20 of our men were injured."

He further alleged, "JCD is deliberately creating trouble to control the campus. They cannot indulge in extortion and tender manipulation because of Shibir. That is why they attacked us."

He blamed Tolaram College JCD President Monir Hossain Zia, Sadar Thana JCD former General Secretary Anik, former President Payel, Tolaram College JCD General Secretary Faruk Khan Sujon, Sadar Thana JCD leader Milon, Kadamrasul College former General Secretary Sheikh Rifat, and Tolaram College JCD leader Yasin for leading the attack.

However, Tolaram College JCD President Monir Hossain Zia rejected the claim and said, "There was a discussion meeting marking August 5. Shibir activists delivered unruly speeches there. We told them not to make such speeches. Coexistence existed on this campus and it is still there. They beat up one of our activists."

Professor Md Shahidul Islam, principal of Government Tolaram College, said, "There was an event marking July Mass Uprising Day. After the program ended, I heard that someone was injured outside the gate. I learned that the incident happened between JCD and Shibir. Police were informed and they brought the situation under control."

Additional Superintendent of Police (DB) Md Hasinuzzaman said, "An altercation took place between JCD and Shibir over speeches at a discussion meeting in Tolaram College. Later, it turned into a scuffle and a chase and counter-chase. The situation is now under control."

-SA