Calm returns to Ctg after tensions over erasing July Uprising graffiti

After two days of political tension in Chattogram over allegations of removing graffiti linked to the July Uprising, the Tigerpass area and its surroundings appeared calm this morning (19 May).

The tensions involved activists and leaders from the National Citizen Party (NCP), BNP, Islami Chhatra Shibir and Gono Odhikar Parishad, who took part in separate graffiti campaigns in the area on Monday evening.

A visit to the area around 11:30am found no major political gatherings or activities, unlike the previous two days, which were marked by protests, police restrictions and scuffles.

Graffiti painted overnight could be seen on the pillars of the Shaheed Wasim Akram Expressway and walls along the roads. However, no activists or political groups were seen painting new graffiti in the area. The presence of law enforcement members was also very limited.

Political tensions spread across the city from Sunday after allegations emerged that graffiti linked to the July Uprising was being removed. 

The National Citizen Party (NCP) alleged that efforts were being made to erase the uprising's memories and announced a graffiti campaign in protest.

NCP Chattogram city unit publicity secretary Riduan Hridoy told The Business Standard that the graffiti campaign linked to the July Uprising would continue across the city.

Last morning, Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) banned rallies, gatherings and processions from GEC intersection to Dewanhat. Later, police stopped students and activists from painting graffiti in the Tigerpass area, leading to scuffles.

Allegations of misconduct involving a group of female students also sparked widespread discussion and criticism on social media. Amid strong criticism, police withdrew the restrictions within 12 hours.