Clashes Between Two Factions of Chatra Dal at GSTU, 2 Injured

Two groups of Chatra Dal clashed repeatedly at Gopalganj Science and Technology University over the change of Proctor. The incident began around 4:30 pm today (Sunday, 22 February) in front of the administrative building. Two Chatra Dal leaders were reported injured in the clashes.

The campus has been tense since the incident. One faction of Chatra Dal is staging a sit-in blockade outside the administrative building, while another group is positioned inside.

According to sources, the university administration relieved the current Proctor, Dr. Arifuzzaman Rajib, from his duties and appointed Dr. Ahsan Saurav from the ASVM Department as the new Proctor. This decision sparked tension between the two factions of Chatra Dal.

Eyewitnesses said the clash started when one group opposed the Proctor change and took position, leading to verbal exchanges with the opposing side. The situation soon turned physical, followed by chases and counter-chases in the field adjacent to the administrative building and surrounding areas.

Chatra Dal Joint General Secretary Shafiqul Islam said the clash began when Vice-President Zahirul Islam Zahir allegedly misbehaved with the Chairman of the Public Administration Department while expressing solidarity with the ongoing movement of ASVM Department students. When Publicity Secretary Nahidur Rahman Sakib protested, Zahir allegedly attacked him. Several others then joined in assaulting Sakib.

On the other hand, Vice-President Zahirul Islam Zahir said the misunderstanding started when a push occurred while entering Chatra Dal leader Anwar's room. In the scuffle, Nahidur Rahman Sakib attacked him. At the same time, a teacher pulled his collar. Several others then attacked him.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Hossain Uddin Shekhar said efforts are underway to resolve the matter. He expressed hope that normalcy would return soon.