At least 10 people, including a police officer, were injured on Sunday in Lakshmipur town during clashes between members of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Chhatra Dal, and police, after protesters reportedly defied Section 144.
The incident occurred around 5:30pm in front of Chowkbazar Mosque, where members of the student groups gathered for a protest despite the administration’s ban.
Among the injured was Officer-in-Charge of Sadar Model Police Station Wahid Parvez, along with several activists, including Anti-Discrimination Student Movement organiser Saiful Islam Murad.
According to police and local administration, tensions had been brewing since Saturday night following an altercation between Habibur Rahman Fahim of the student movement and Akbar Hossain Munna, publicity secretary of the district unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal. The dispute later escalated into clash.
In response, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement called a protest rally at Chowkbazar on Sunday afternoon, while Chhatra Dal leaders announced a counter-demonstration under the banner of “July Fighters.”
Anticipating potential unrest, the administration imposed Section 144 in municipal area from 4:30pm, prohibiting all types of gatherings.”
Despite the restrictions, protesters took to the streets, leading to a scuffle with police. Additional law enforcement personnel were deployed to the area, and both groups were dispersed. The situation sparked panic among local shopkeepers, prompting many to close their businesses.
Additional Superintendent of Police Hossain Mohammad Raihan Kazemi confirmed the incident, stating that police brought the situation under control and no arrests have been made so far.
Authorities said Section 144 will remain in force until the law and order situation improves.
