At least 15 individuals sustained injuries during clashes between activists of the Jubo League, Chhatra League, and quota reform protesters in Dinajpur. The altercation took place on Tuesday afternoon in the vicinity of Dinajpur Government College.
According to police and local sources, students from various educational institutions congregated to protest against the existing quota system, blocking roads and chanting slogans. The situation escalated when Jubo League and Chhatra League members arrived at the scene, voicing support for the quota system and countering the protesters’ chants. This led to a violent clash between the two factions.
During the confrontation, Jubo League activists allegedly assaulted the protesting students using sticks, rods, and pipes, resulting in injuries to at least 15 students.
Sheikh Md Jinnah Al Mamun, the Superintendent of Police for Dinajpur Sadar Circle, confirmed the incident. “Several individuals have been injured in the clashes and scuffles. We are currently working on identifying those involved through video footage and photographs, and we will take appropriate legal action,” he stated.
The quota reform movement has been a contentious issue, with students demanding changes to the government job quota system, which they argue is unfair and discriminatory. The government, however, has been resistant to these changes, leading to frequent protests and clashes between pro- and anti-quota activists.
Tuesday’s clash is a continuation of the tension surrounding this issue, highlighting the deep divisions and strong emotions it evokes among different groups. The Jubo League and Chhatra League, both associated with the ruling party, have been vocal in their support for the current quota system, often leading to confrontations with students advocating for reform.
The injured students have been taken to local hospitals for treatment. The police have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice, emphasizing the need to maintain peace and order. This incident underscores the volatile nature of the quota reform debate and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to prevent further violence and injury.
Authorities are calling for calm and urging all parties to engage in dialogue to address the grievances and find a mutually acceptable solution. The ongoing tensions and periodic clashes serve as a stark reminder of the challenges faced in balancing different interests and perspectives in the quota reform debate.