Library vandalised in Uttara over AL 'gathering’ allegation

A community library in the residential area of RAJUK Uttara Apartment Project was vandalised after allegations that Awami League supporters were using the space for political gatherings. The incident occurred on Thursday night.

The library, run by the local cricket organisation United Brothers Club, suffered looting and destruction of books, furniture, CCTV equipment, and sports items at around 2:30 am. Authorities said the estimated damage is around 300,000 taka.

According to police and local sources, the violence began on Thursday evening near Gate 4 of the residential complex, involving former leaders of the anti-discrimination student movement, Russel Hossain, Habibul Bashar, Abrar Hanif, and followers of Mostafiz Habib Sunam. Several people, including Hossain, were injured in the clash.

Club president Abdullah Fahad filed a complaint at Turag police station, stating, “The vandalism is the result of a dispute between two groups. Later, Awami League supporters held a gathering in the library, using this allegation to downplay the issue.”

Russel Hossain denied the allegations, claiming that people inside the library attacked him and his group. He said, “20–30 people came out with sticks. My hand was broken. But no vandalism occurred inside the library.”

Mostafiz Habib, also involved in the clash, alleged that former leaders of anti-discrimination student movement are running illegal businesses in the area and extorting money. He said the confrontation escalated after he attempted to mediate an earlier assault on two youths.

Turag police officer-in-charge Monir Hossain confirmed the library vandalism but said the attackers have not yet been identified.