Tensions flare as Chhatra Dal, Shibir clash at DU hall

Tensions erupted between activists of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal and Islami Chhatra Shibir at Dhaka University’s Dr Muhammad Shahidullah Hall on Sunday after an inquiry into allegations that two guests had engaged in “homosexual activities” in a hall room.

The clash broke out at the provost’s office during an investigation by the hall administration, leaving several activists from both groups injured.

The controversy began on Saturday after videos circulated on social media showing two guests apologising for allegedly engaging in inappropriate acts in the room of Hall Union Associate General Secretary Ibrahim Khalil. The hall authorities subsequently launched an investigation.

During Sunday’s inquiry, Ibrahim Khalil and his roommate were summoned for questioning. According to eyewitnesses, Chhatra Dal activists gathered outside the office, chanted slogans and entered the premises, triggering a heated confrontation with Shibir activists inside.

The two organisations traded blame for the violence.

Shahidullah Hall Chhatra Dal Convener Mosaddik Al Haque Shanto alleged that Shibir activists attacked Chhatra Dal leaders while trying to shield Ibrahim Khalil. He also claimed CCTV footage from the previous day had been deleted to conceal Khalil’s presence.

Shahidullah Hall Union General Secretary Taukir Hasan rejected the allegation, claiming Chhatra Dal activists forced their way into the inquiry room and assaulted him after accusing a Shibir member of taking photographs.

Responding to the allegations, Ibrahim Khalil said he had allowed his cousin and another person to rest in his room while he was away in Mawa with friends and had no prior knowledge of their actions.

He said he would take legal action against those involved.

Rumours later spread that Hall Provost Prof Md Aminul Islam Bhuiyan had resigned, but Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Prof ABM Obaidul Islam denied the claim.

University Proctor Prof Israfil Ratan said a proctorial team dispersed the crowd and mediated between the groups, adding that an official inquiry would determine further action.