Violence Erupts at Dhaka Polytechnic Between Student Factions

Tejgaon witnessed a night of escalating tension as violent clashes broke out between activists of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Bangladesh Islamic Chhatra Shibir at the Dhaka Polytechnic Institute. The confrontation, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, 3 March, left at least ten individuals injured and has prompted a heavy police presence on the campus to prevent further bloodshed.

Midnight Escalation

The disturbances reportedly commenced around 1:00 am following a heated dispute regarding territorial dominance and the display of political banners within the campus grounds. According to eyewitnesses, what began as a verbal altercation rapidly deteriorated into a physical brawl. Supporters from both factions engaged in a series of “chase and counter-chase” manoeuvres, utilising blunt objects and sticks during the fray.

The darkness of the midnight hour added to the chaos, as students in the residential halls woke to the sounds of shouting and glass breaking. Campus security was quickly overwhelmed, necessitating the intervention of external law enforcement.

Casualties and Medical Response

Of the ten activists reported injured, four are said to be in a serious condition. The victims were rushed to nearby medical facilities, including the Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), for treatment of lacerations and blunt-force trauma. While no fatalities have been reported, the severity of the injuries has heightened the sense of unease among the general student body.

Policing and Campus Aftermath

By 2:30 am, a large contingent of police from the Tejgaon Police Station arrived at the scene to restore order. Officers conducted sweeps of the common areas and residential wings to disperse the remaining activists. Authorities have confirmed that while the situation is currently “under control,” the atmosphere remains extremely volatile.

The administration of the Dhaka Polytechnic Institute has yet to issue a formal statement regarding disciplinary actions, though sources suggest an emergency meeting will be held later today to discuss a temporary suspension of campus political activities. For many students, this clash is a grim reminder of the persistent nature of student-wing violence in the nation’s premier technical institutions.

Parents and guardians have expressed deep concern over the safety of their wards, with some calling for a permanent ban on political cadres within educational premises to ensure an uninterrupted academic environment.