CU remains tense following student–local clashes

A tense situation continues to prevail across Chittagong University (CU) following a clash between students and local residents of Zobra village, adjacent to the university, on Sunday. Most shops near the university’s gate number 2 remain closed. Section 144 has been imposed in the university and surrounding areas until 12:00 am on Monday (September 1).

A visit to the area revealed that villagers are largely staying indoors. The village appeared almost completely devoid of men, with only a few essential shops open on a limited basis. Some students were seen leaving the campus in anxiety.

Following the clashes, the university administration formed a 21-member investigation committee on Sunday night. The university remains closed today, and the campus is being patrolled by a joint force comprising the army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB). Section 144, announced by the local administration, prohibits meetings, gatherings, or protests in and around the campus until midnight.

Residents and students have urged authorities to conduct a proper investigation and restore normalcy on campus. They emphasised the need to maintain safe distances between students and locals. Due to accommodation shortages, many students rent rooms in nearby residential buildings and are demanding ensured housing facilities.

The unrest began on Saturday night when a female student was allegedly assaulted by a gatekeeper during an argument while entering her rented accommodation near Gate No. 2. When other students rushed to the scene, clashes erupted with villagers, continuing late into the night. This led to repeated confrontations throughout Sunday, including chase-and-counter-chase incidents. Over 200 people, including the Pro-Vice Chancellor, the Proctor, journalists, and students, were injured.

Notably, many residents of Zobra village earn their livelihoods by operating CNG auto-rickshaws and battery-operated rickshaws on university premises. Some also run shops within the campus, and a significant number work at the university.