Clash Between CU Students and Locals: University Administration Announces 10 Decisions

A trivial incident sparked an unprecedented clash between students of Chittagong University (CU) and residents of Jobra village, resulting in injuries to nearly 500 students, with three fighting for their lives. Students have attributed the incident to the failure of the university administration. To prevent such unforeseen incidents in the future, the university authorities have announced 10 decisions, which were revealed during an emergency press conference held at 6:00 PM on Monday, September 1, in the Vice-Chancellor’s meeting room.

University Administration’s 10 Decisions

1. The university will bear all medical expenses for injured students (expenses are already being covered).
2. A five-member teacher committee will be formed to monitor the treatment of injured students.
3. The university will request the government to establish a model police station near CU to ensure student safety.
4. Arrangements will be made to set up a police box in the railway crossing area.
5. A case will be filed by Sunday against those involved in the clash.
6. An investigation committee will be formed to probe the incident.
7. An emergency syndicate meeting has been called for Tuesday, September 2, at 3:00 PM to review the situation and determine the university’s course of action.
8. A committee will be formed to coordinate with landlords in the Jobra area near Gate No. 2 of the university.
9. A request has been made to retain the striking force, comprising joint security forces, until the situation stabilizes, in the interest of student safety.
10. A hotline service will be launched to provide round-the-clock support to students.

These decisions were finalized during a meeting of the harmony committee, comprising university administration, law enforcement, local representatives, student representatives, and various student organizations, held at 3:00 PM on Sunday, according to CU Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr. Md. Kamal Uddin.

The clash originated from an altercation at a residence near the university’s Gate No. 2, involving a female student from the 2024-25 academic year, Safia Khatun, and a security guard. The dispute arose when Safia returned home late, leading to an argument. It is alleged that the guard slapped Safia, though reports indicate that Safia, in anger, slapped the guard first, prompting him to retaliate. When Safia called some male friends for assistance, they attempted to detain the guard, who fled the scene. As news spread across the campus, more students gathered, chased the guard, and were subsequently attacked with bricks and stones by local residents, leading to a clash and counter-chase.