Section 144 Enforced After CU Student Clash

Clashes erupted between Chittagong University students and local residents near Jobra village, adjacent to Gate No. 2, on Sunday afternoon.

The Hathazari Upazila administration has imposed Section 144 in the Chittagong University area following violent clashes between students and local residents. The measure comes after a female student was reportedly assaulted by a caretaker of a rented house near the campus, sparking unrest that escalated into large-scale confrontation.

According to the official notice signed by Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Muhammad Abdullah Al Mumin, the restrictions will remain in force until midnight on Monday. The order prohibits all gatherings, meetings, assemblies, demonstrations, and rallies within the designated area, stretching from the eastern side of Gate No. 2 market of Chittagong University to the Rail Gate under Fatehpur union. Carrying of weapons has also been banned, while no more than five people are allowed to move together in the restricted zone.

The UNO said the decision was taken to prevent further violence and to maintain peace and order in the area. “We had no alternative but to impose Section 144 to ensure security,” he explained.

Tension flared late Saturday night when students clashed with local residents in the Gate No. 2 area near Jobra village. The conflict, which continued until Sunday afternoon, left at least 180 students injured, including the university’s vice-chancellor (Administration) Professor Md Kamal Uddin, and Proctor Professor Tanvir Mohammad Haider Arif. Local residents claimed that 10 to 12 people from their side were also injured in the violence.

Witnesses said the unrest began after the alleged assault incident involving a female student, which triggered protests by her peers. The protests soon turned into clashes, with both sides engaging in brick-throwing and chase-and-counter chase.

Chittagong University authorities have expressed deep concern over the incident and urged students to maintain calm while the matter is being investigated. Additional police forces have been deployed in and around the university to prevent further escalation.

The situation remains tense as students and locals brace under the emergency restrictions.