A tense confrontation erupted between activists of Islami Chhatra Shibir and left-leaning student organisations at the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) of Dhaka University on Tuesday, as heated slogans echoed across the TSC compound.
The clash followed a special exhibition organised by Shibir to mark the first anniversary of the July Uprising.
Tensions flared when the left-wing groups objected to the display of photographs of several former Jamaat-e-Islami leaders convicted and executed for war crimes during the 1971 Liberation War.
After discussions with university authorities, Shibir agreed to remove the images in the presence of Assistant Proctor Dr Rafiqul Islam.
However, the situation escalated when left-wing activists blocked the proctor’s vehicle, refusing to let it pass until he arrived in person.
Upon his arrival, they raised provocative slogans, including: “Wow, the proctor is wonderful — guardian of the Razakars!”
The remark sparked outrage among Shibir activists, who responded with counter-slogans such as: “Delhi or Dhaka, Dhaka Dhaka!”
The exchange created a chaotic scene, drawing crowds and heightening tensions on campus.
In the aftermath, the left organisations issued four immediate demands:
Immediate removal of all photographs of individuals accused of war crimes and cancellation of the event.
A public apology to the student community for holding such a controversial exhibition.
A formal assurance that similar incidents will not be allowed in the future.
An explanation from the university administration on how the event was permitted, followed by an official apology.
They questioned how such an exhibition could take place under the watch of the university authorities, calling it a “shameful incident.”
In response, Shibir leaders condemned the actions of the leftist groups, accusing them of attempting to incite chaos and disrupt peaceful commemorative activities.
The organisation announced plans to hold an emergency press conference, stating that “a group is trying to create unrest by instigating mob violence.”
The university administration has yet to issue an official statement, but sources indicate that the Vice-Chancellor’s office is monitoring the situation closely to prevent further escalation.