Tensions escalated at Begum Rokeya University (BRUR) in Rangpur on Tuesday after members and supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its affiliated organisations gathered at the university’s main gate following a clash between activists of the Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Islami Chhatra Shibir.
Members of Chhatra Dal, Jubo Dal and Swechchhasebak Dal, along with other BNP activists, took up positions near the university’s main entrance from around 4pm. Witnesses said some of those present were carrying locally made weapons, including knives, machetes and sticks, raising concerns over the security situation in and around the campus.
The gathering came after both sides reportedly announced separate protest programmes in response to the earlier confrontation between Chhatra Dal and Chhatra Shibir activists. The latest development has added to tensions surrounding the university, with the presence of political activists from outside the campus further heightening concerns among students and local residents.
According to eyewitnesses, several activists arrived at the main gate from different parts of Rangpur city and surrounding areas. Some were seen carrying weapons and sticks as they joined the demonstration in support of the university unit of Chhatra Dal.
A Jubo Dal activist who attended the programme said they had gathered to express solidarity with and support for the university’s Chhatra Dal members. In his remarks, he strongly criticised Islami Chhatra Shibir and claimed that the organisation had been rejected by ordinary people, students and residents of Rangpur.
However, despite reportedly announcing a counter-programme at the same location, no leaders or activists of Chhatra Shibir or its affiliated organisations were seen at the scene, according to local sources.
The latest tension follows an earlier clash between activists of Chhatra Dal and Chhatra Shibir at the university’s main gate. The incident prompted both sides to announce separate programmes, raising fears of further confrontation.
The reported presence of outsiders and the display of locally made weapons have also sparked concerns about the safety of students and the maintenance of a peaceful academic environment. The situation remains sensitive, with the university community closely monitoring developments.
Details about how the earlier clash began, the number of people injured and whether any arrests or legal action have been taken over the alleged carrying of weapons were not immediately available.
No immediate statement from Chhatra Shibir was available regarding the latest developments. Further information is also awaited from the authorities regarding the overall security situation and any measures being taken to prevent further clashes.
