What Happened During the Violent Clash in Dhaka?
Synopsis
In a shocking turn of events, several individuals, including journalists, were injured during a fierce clash between students of Dhaka University and Dhaka College. The unrest, fueled by a dispute over shop establishments, escalated quickly, leading to chaos and calls for better security in the area.
Key Takeaways
Violent clash between DU and Dhaka College students.
Injuries reported, including among journalists.
Police intervention was necessary to restore order.
Students called for improved security.
Political instability contributing to unrest.
Dhaka, Oct 13 (NationPress) On Monday, several individuals, including journalists, sustained injuries in Bangladesh as a violent confrontation erupted between students from Dhaka University (DU) and Dhaka College in the Nilkhet and New Market areas of the capital, according to local news reports.
The chaos began over a disagreement regarding the establishment of shops on the footpath near DU's Shahnewaz Hostel, which quickly escalated into a pursuit and retaliation between the two factions.
According to eyewitness accounts highlighted by Bangladesh’s prominent daily, The Business Standard, both groups began to throw bricks and stones, resulting in a disorderly scene in the vicinity.
Reports indicate that there were explosions amidst the turmoil as DU students called for enhanced security, leading police to step in to restore order.
Mohammad Jahangir, Assistant Commissioner of New Market Zone within the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), confirmed the incident, stating, “An altercation occurred, leading to the clash. Due to insufficient police presence at night, we had to deploy additional forces. The situation was under control by around 2:30 am.”
Regarding the reported explosions, the senior police official mentioned that it has yet to be verified whether the explosives were crude bombs.
After the clash, students from Shahnewaz hostel assembled outside the residence of the DU Vice-Chancellor, demanding security and chanting slogans such as, “Cocktails in our hall, while the administration sleeps.”
“Around 1:00 am, some Dhaka College students attempted to remove the shops in front of the hostel gate and vandalized a few. When our students protested, they retaliated and later returned with reinforcements, throwing bricks at the hostel and detonating three explosives in front of the dormitory,” quoted Mehraz Zaman Hira, a resident of Shahnewaz hostel, as reported by The Daily Star.
“Dhaka College students attempted to take over the space in front of our hall by setting up shops. When we resisted, they attacked us fiercely and held us back for about three hours, throwing bottles, bricks, and three crude bombs. We received no assistance from the DU administration,” shared another DU student.
Bangladesh has been experiencing a wave of protests and extreme lawlessness following the overthrow of the democratically elected Awami League government, led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, during violent protests last year.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize the need for dialogue and peaceful resolution in educational environments. The recent clash highlights the significant issues of student safety and administrative responsibility that must be addressed to foster a secure learning atmosphere.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the clash between students?
The clash stemmed from a dispute regarding the establishment of shops on the footpath near Dhaka University's Shahnewaz Hostel.
Were there any injuries reported?
Yes, several individuals, including journalists, were reported injured during the violent confrontation.
What actions did the police take?
Police intervened to restore order, and additional forces were called in due to insufficient presence at night.
What were the students demanding?
The students demanded better security following the unrest.
How has recent political turmoil affected Bangladesh?
The country has experienced numerous protests and increased lawlessness since the overthrow of the Awami League government last year.
