At least 15 people were injured today during violent clashes between left-leaning student activists and members of the “Shahbagh Birodhi Oikya” in front of the Chattogram Press Club. The confrontation erupted during a protest rally against the acquittal of Jamaat-e-Islami leader ATM Azharul Islam in a war crimes case.
The rally, organised by the “Gonotantrik Chhatra Jote” to protest the acquittal of Jamaat-e-Islami leader ATM Azharul Islam, was met with a counter-protest by the Shahbagh Birodhi Oikya, leading to stone-throwing and physical altercations. Three activists sustained serious injuries and were admitted to Chattogram Medical College Hospital (CMCH).
Kotwali Police Station OC Abdul Karim confirmed the clash, stating, “There was tension between the two groups, leading to a minor scuffle. Police intervened promptly to control the situation.”
No cases have been filed yet, but authorities are reviewing CCTV footage.
Some leaders from the student activist group were seriously injured during the clash.
After the initial clash, leftist students attempted to march toward Cheragi intersection but were chased by Shahbagh Birodhi Oikya members, reigniting tensions. The latter group later celebrated at the press club premises, burning a banner seized from the protest.
An eyewitness stated that a few people were standing under the banner of the Left Democratic Alliance, while the Anti-Shahbagh Alliance was also chanting slogans nearby. The police were trying to calm both sides. However, a physical altercation eventually broke out during a heated exchange.
The day prior, on May 27, at least five people, including a journalist, were injured in clashes between leftist students and “anti-Shahbagh” activists, including Islami Chhatra Shibir members, at Rajshahi University. The Democratic Student Alliance alleged an attack by Jamaat-backed protesters, while the Anti-Shahbagh Alliance claimed they were assaulted first during an anti-drug rally.
Shibir reported injuries among its activists but did not disclose identities.