Our Campuses Must Not Return to Violence

The recent violent clashes between activists of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal and Islami Chhatra Shibir at Begum Rokeya University, Jagannath University, Dhaka College and Alia Madrasa are a matter of grave concern. Within just 24 hours, scores of people were injured as rival groups engaged in chases, counter-chases and attacks with sticks, brickbats and other locally made weapons. According to reports, the violence at Begum Rokeya University began after Chhatra Dal objected to a banner erected for a Shibir programme, while clashes at Jagannath University and Dhaka College reportedly stemmed from disputes over campus programmes and organisational activities. Whatever the immediate trigger, no disagreement justifies violence.

The timing of these clashes makes them even more unfortunate. Just two years ago, universities were at the heart of the July Uprising. Students united to demand justice, accountability and democratic reform, and many paid the ultimate price while thousands more risked their lives for a better Bangladesh. That movement inspired hope that the country would move beyond the politics of fear and intimidation. Seeing campuses once again descend into confrontation between rival student organisations is therefore deeply disappointing.

Student politics has long played an important role in the country’s democratic journey. From the Language Movement of 1952 and the Mass Uprising of 1969 to the anti-autocracy movement of 1990 and the July Uprising of 2024, students have repeatedly led national movements for justice and democracy. That proud legacy is diminished when differences over banners, programmes or organisational influence are settled with brickbats instead of dialogue. Reports that outsiders carrying sticks, machetes and other weapons joined some of the clashes are equally unacceptable. Educational institutions should never become arenas where muscle power replaces reasoned debate.

However, the latest incidents also expose weaknesses in campus governance and conflict management. University authorities must identify tensions before they erupt into violence and ensure that all student organisations can conduct peaceful activities within institutional rules. Political parties must ensure their student wings reject violence and respect democratic values. Law enforcement agencies, meanwhile, must investigate every incident impartially and bring those responsible to justice, regardless of organisational affiliation. Only fair and transparent accountability can prevent retaliation and restore confidence.

In conclusion, Bangladesh cannot afford to let its universities slide back into cycles of political violence. The July Uprising was not only about changing a government but also about changing the culture of politics. That aspiration will remain unfulfilled if campuses continue to witness such clashes. The greatest tribute to Abu Sayeed, Mir Mugdha and all those who sacrificed their lives in 2024 is not another slogan or commemorative programme, but ensuring that universities remain places where ideas triumph over intimidation, dialogue prevails over violence, and leadership is earned through integrity rather than force. Only then will the true spirit of the July Uprising endure.