BRUR remains tense as shibir gathers at Carmichael, JCD positions outside campus

Tensions continued at Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur (BRUR) on Tuesday following clashes between Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal and Islami Chhatra Shibir. Shibir activists gathered at Rangpur Carmichael College, while leaders and activists of Chhatra Dal assembled outside the university's main gate.

According to eyewitnesses, leaders and activists of Chhatra Dal and Jubo Dal from Rangpur city and surrounding areas began arriving at the site after 4:00pm. Many were reportedly carrying sticks and sharp homemade weapons, creating a tense atmosphere across the campus.

The unrest follows Monday's clashes between Chhatra Dal and Shibir over the display of banners featuring alleged war criminals on campus. In protest, Rangpur Metropolitan Chhatra Dal announced a demonstration and sit-in programme in front of the university's main gate.

Leaders and activists from Chhatra Dal, Jubo Dal, Swechchhasebak Dal and other BNP-affiliated organisations joined the programme.
Although Shibir had also announced a programme at the same location, its members did not appear at the university.

Instead, they gathered at Rangpur Carmichael College, according to local sources.

Additional law enforcement personnel have been deployed to prevent further violence. Tajhat Police Station Officer-in-Charge Rafiqul Islam said sufficient police members were on duty to deal with the situation.

He added that the situation was currently under control and officers remained on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents.

University unit Chhatra Dal president Yamin said the organisation would strongly protest and resist anyone who "belittles July or mocks 1971."

BRUR Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Md Shawkat Ali said discussions had been held with leaders of both student organisations following Monday's incident.

He noted that Tuesday's programme was organised by Rangpur Metropolitan Chhatra Dal rather than the university's own students, adding that the university administration remained vigilant to maintain a peaceful campus environment.