Violent clashes broke out between rival student organizations at Government City College in Chittagong on Tuesday, leaving at least 20 people injured and forcing authorities to suspend classes and examinations.
The confrontations, involving activists from Chhatra Dal and Islami Chhatra Shibir, unfolded in two phases between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., according to college officials and local police. Witnesses reported the use of sticks, sharp weapons, and brickbats, highlighting the intensity of the violence.
Graffiti Dispute Sparks Violence
The immediate trigger for the clashes was a dispute over graffiti on a college wall. The original slogan read “Student politics and Chhatra League–free campus.” On Monday night, a group of Chhatra Dal activists allegedly removed the word “student” and replaced it with the word “Gupta,” a move that quickly spread on social media and heightened tensions.
By Tuesday morning, verbal confrontations escalated into physical clashes as both groups gathered on campus and exchanged slogans.
Two Phases of Clashes
The first round of violence began around noon, with both sides accusing each other of initiating the attack. Although the situation briefly calmed, tensions flared again in the afternoon when a Chhatra Shibir procession advanced toward the college from the New Market intersection.
Chhatra Dal activists, already positioned near the campus, reportedly chased the procession, leading to a second round of clashes.
Nearby shops shut down as panic spread, and both groups hurled bricks at each other. Several individuals were seen carrying sticks and sharp weapons.
Authorities Suspend Classes, Police Deployed
College authorities suspended all classes and examinations following the violence.
Vice Principal Jasim Uddin said, “A clash broke out between two groups over graffiti on the campus. Police were called in to bring the situation under control, and all academic activities have been suspended.”
Police were deployed in the area and remained on-site to prevent further escalation.
Kotwali Police Station Officer-in-Charge Aftab Uddin said, “Tension remains in the area following the incident. Police are working to maintain order and prevent further clashes.”
Injuries and Conflicting Claims
Both groups reported multiple injuries.
Chhatra Shibir’s Chittagong South unit publicity secretary Zahidul Alam said at least 15 of their members were injured. He added that one activist suffered severe injuries, including a reportedly severed ankle, and is undergoing treatment at a private hospital.
Chhatra Dal leaders denied responsibility for the violence. City unit convener Saiful Islam defended the graffiti change, saying, “The word ‘Gupta’ was written after removing ‘student.’ If they are not ‘Gupta,’ why are they offended?”
Medical officials confirmed that at least one injured student, identified as Sami Md. Alauddin, was treated for head injuries at Chittagong Medical College Hospital before being discharged.
Longstanding Rivalry Over Campus Control
The incident highlights ongoing tensions over control of the campus, which for decades had been dominated by the now-banned Chhatra League.
Following the political changes of August 5, 2024, the campus was declared free from partisan student politics under a general student banner. However, rival groups soon re-established their presence.
Islami Chhatra Shibir formed a committee that year, while Chhatra Dal also became active, intensifying competition for influence and control.
Growing Concerns Over Campus Violence
The clash reflects a broader pattern of student political violence in Bangladesh, where campuses often become arenas for rivalry between political groups.
Observers warn that the recurrence of violent confrontations—even over symbolic issues like graffiti—signals deeper instability and undermines efforts to depoliticize educational institutions.
As of Tuesday evening, tensions remained high, with groups continuing to gather near the campus, raising concerns about further unrest. Authorities have yet to confirm any arrests, and investigations are ongoing.
