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Chattogram, May 28, 2025 : Chattogram witnessed violent clashes between two groups protesting and counter-protesting the release of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami leader ATM Azharul Islam, resulting in six injuries, including a woman. The police detained two individuals in connection with the incident.
The confrontation occurred on Wednesday, May 28, at around 3:30 PM in front of the Chattogram Press Club in the Jamal Khan area. According to police, the situation is now under control.
Saidul Haque, central president of the Democratic Students’ Council, reported that Chattogram branch president Dhruba Barua, secretary Ekanta Bishwas, treasurer Sudipta Guha, Chattogram University organizer Rishad Ahmed, city student front president Ripa Majumdar, and student front member Arpita Nath were injured. They are currently receiving treatment at Chattogram Medical College (CMC) Hospital.
ATM Azharul Islam, previously sentenced to death for crimes against humanity during the 1971 Liberation War, was acquitted by the Appellate Division on Tuesday, May 27, and released on Wednesday.
Eyewitnesses stated that the Democratic Students’ Alliance called for a protest in front of the Press Club against Azharul’s release. Simultaneously, a group named the “Anti-Shahbag Movement” held a counter-program at the same location. Tensions escalated as both groups faced off, leading to a chase and counter-chase. Bricks were thrown, and banners were torn and set on fire. Despite the police presence, the situation briefly spiraled out of control.
Around 4:30 PM, a group chanting slogans marched from Cheragi Mor toward the Press Club. Near Sikdar Hotel, one person was reportedly beaten by members of the Anti-Shahbag Movement.
Police detained two individuals on charges of involvement in the clash. However, Kotwali Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abdul Karim declined to comment to journalists, stating only that the situation was under control.
Present during the clash were Abrar Hasan, chief coordinator of “July Unity Chattogram,” and Tawsif Imroz, a leader of the “Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.”
Abrar Hasan said, “Some activists from left-leaning student organizations were protesting the verdict regarding a Jamaat leader. At the same time, anti-Shahbag activists were chanting slogans. Despite police efforts to maintain calm, verbal altercations led to the clash.”
AI/MR
