JCD-Shibir clashes cloud July Uprising Day programmes

Violent clashes broke out between activists of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Islami Chhatra Shibir in Narayanganj and at Barishal University on Wednesday, leaving dozens of people injured amid renewed tensions over programmes marking July Uprising Day.

In both incidents, the rival student organisations traded blame, each accusing the other of provoking the violence. Police and university authorities later intervened to restore order.

At least 20 people were injured in a clash between JCD and Shibir activists in Narayanganj city around noon. The violence spread across the Chashara and College Road areas, where the two groups engaged in repeated chases and counter-chases for nearly an hour before police brought the situation under control.

Among those injured were Shibir’s Tolaram College unit President Imdadul Haq Shuvo, Secretary Tamim, Finance Secretary Juhas, Narayanganj city unit President Amit Hasan and Finance Secretary Ariful Islam. JCD activist Tuhin Ahmed was also injured. The identities of several other injured could not be confirmed immediately. The injured were taken to a local government hospital. 

Amit Hasan, president of the Narayanganj city unit of Shibir, alleged that JCD activists first assaulted leaders of the Tolaram College unit before attacking Shibir members who went to rescue them.

He claimed that 15 to 20 Shibir activists were injured in the attack and accused JCD of attempting to establish control over the campus. He further alleged that Tolaram College JCD President Monir Hossain Zia, former Sadar Thana JCD General Secretary Anik, former President Payel, General Secretary Faruk Khan Sujon, Sadar Thana leader Milon, Kadamrasul College former General Secretary Sheikh Rifat and JCD activist Yasin led the assault.

Rejecting the allegations, Tolaram College JCD President Monir Hossain Zia said the dispute began after Shibir activists delivered what he described as provocative speeches during a discussion marking August 5.

Additional Superintendent of Police (DB) Md Hasinuzzaman said an argument during a discussion programme escalated into a clash followed by chase and counter-chase incidents. “The situation is now under control,” he added.

In Barishal, a separate clash broke out in two phases between JCD and Shibir activists at Barishal University during programmes marking July Uprising Day.

Although both organisations claimed around 20 people were injured, 10 were admitted to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital.