6 injured in clashes between Chhatra Dal, Shibir over control of Ctg Govt City College

At least six people were injured, including one in critical condition, in clashes between Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal and Islami Chhatra Shibir over control of Chattogram Government City College today (21 April).

The violence broke out in the morning and flared up again in the afternoon, with repeated confrontations reported throughout the day.

Confirming the incident, Kotwali Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md Aftab Uddin said at least six people from both groups were injured and received treatment at different hospitals in the city. "Detailed information on the injured is being collected."

The OC added, "Additional police have been deployed at the scene. The situation is now under control. The incident stemmed from an internal conflict between two groups within the college."

According to Shibir leaders and activists, tensions began after a graffiti reading "Chhatra rajniti and Chhatra League mukto campus" was altered.

They alleged that last night, a group led by Chhatra Dal college unit Joint Convener Abdullah Al Mamun erased the word "Chhatra" (student) and replaced it with "Gupto" (secret), triggering unrest.

The dispute led to the first round of clashes in the morning. A second round erupted around 4pm, when activists from both sides engaged in brick-throwing and were seen carrying sticks and locally made sharp weapons.

Speaking to The Business Standard, Zahidul Alam Joy, publicity secretary of Chattogram Metropolitan South Chhatra Shibir, said, "Yesterday, 'July graffiti' was removed from the college and provocative slogans targeting Shibir were written."

He claimed that their activists were attacked when they went to the campus in the morning following social media protests over the graffiti incident. "At least five Shibir members, including the unit president, were injured."

Zahidul also alleged, "When Shibir activists brought out a peaceful procession in protest, Chhatra Dal activists attacked again. Ashraful, an honours student and Shibir activist, sustained severe leg injuries, leaving him critically injured, along with several others."

However, former Chhatra Dal leader Sourav Priya Pal denied the allegation, claiming Shibir activists attempted to assert control over the campus and attacked general students, prompting resistance.

"Chhatra Dal activists went there after receiving the news and resisted them, forcing Shibir activists to leave the campus. Chhatra Dal did not attack anyone," he added.

Amid the unrest, the college authorities suspended classes and examinations for the day. However, exams under the National University, including second-year degree and master's exams, were held as scheduled.