Clash Over Banner Removal Turns Deadly: Chhatra Dal Activist Killed in Chattogram

A clash between two factions over removing a banner near Chattogram City Mayor Shahadat Hossain's image escalated into a shooting incident in Bakalia Access Road area, leaving Md. Sajjad (25), a Chatra Dal activist, dead and at least 18 others injured. The shooting occurred around 1:00am on Monday.

Local sources said the row began when one faction, led by Jubo Dal leader Badsha, and the other, associated with Humayun-Borhan group (linked to BNP leader Mir Helal), disputed the banner's removal. Tension had been brewing over drug trade and turf control in the area. The identities of the groups remain unconfirmed.

Chowk Bazar Thana Police Outpost in-charge Nurul Alam Ashik confirmed the death to The Daily Campus, saying, "Md. Sajjad (26) was shot and died. He had a chest wound. Eight others with gunshot injuries were hospitalized."

GM Salahuddin Asad, identifying as Joint Convener of Chattogram City Chatra Dal, said at the hospital, "Jubo League terrorists, posing as Jubo Dal, committed atrocities. They had hung banners with the mayor's photo. When the mayor's supporters ordered removal, our boys went to take it down. They were beaten and dragged. When we tried to rescue, they fired indiscriminately from the building roof, killing Sajjad."

Expelled Jubo Dal leader Emdadul Badsha said, "Many were shot. Where did they get these weapons? Recover them. They cut the power before firing. They're not BNP; they were Jubo League before. Now they misuse Jubo Dal's name. The Mir Helal group wasn't involved; it's all lies. The deceased Sajjad was a Chatra Dal worker."

He added, "Sohan, Borhan, Hiran, and Dakat Badsha fired. They're drug addicts. This is terrorism. Bring the perpetrators to justice. We informed police; the OC assured arrests by night."

A duty doctor at Chittagong Medical College Hospital's casualty ward (anonymously) said, "18 to 20 from the Access Road incident received treatment. Some are in critical condition and admitted to various wards; others took primary care and left."

Sajjad's father Md. Alam, identifying as a BNP supporter, said, "Friends called my son out. I don’t know what sparked the fight. I want Tarique Zia, the mayor, and party leaders to ensure justice."

Police have launched operations to apprehend the remaining suspects, with a large contingent deployed in the area.