Clashes Erupt Near Alia Madrasa Following Jagannath University Violence

Tensions flared in the capital’s Bakshibazar area on Tuesday afternoon as violent clashes broke out between activists of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and Islami Chhatra Shibir near the Dhaka Government Madrasa-e-Alia campus, leaving several people injured.

The confrontations were triggered by an earlier outbreak of violence at Jagannath University on Tuesday morning. Clashes had erupted there between JCD and Shibir supporters over participation in a event commemorating the second anniversary of the July Uprising, resulting in at least 50 injuries. The unrest subsequently spilled over to the Bakshibazar and Chawkbazar precincts near the Alia Madrasa.

According to eyewitnesses, tensions began brewing outside the madrasa around 3:00 pm, culminating in a series of chases and counter-chases. By 5:15 pm, the situation escalated into direct violence as opposing factions armed with sticks and iron pipes confronted each other on the main thoroughfares.

Shibir activists armed with iron pipes established a presence near the main entrance of the madrasa, while JCD members assembled along the road facing the Madrasa Education Board premises. The stand-off led to an immediate suspension of vehicular movement along the busy Bakshibazar corridor connecting Chawkbazar and Chankharpul, forcing commuters and pedestrians into prolonged traffic snarls.

Law enforcement personnel deployed extra units to the scene to prevent further escalation. Police officers worked to disperse the crowds, mediate between the opposing sides, and restore order to the surrounding streets.

Local police authorities confirmed that substantial reinforcements remain stationed in the area to maintain stability and prevent retaliatory attacks. Efforts to normalize traffic flow along the Bakshibazar route are ongoing as authorities monitor the situation closely.