Police have arrested two individuals following a violent clash involving students of Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET). The incident took place on Monday evening in the Padma Residential area after a verbal dispute between students and a local shopkeeper escalated into a physical confrontation.
At least 15 RUET students were injured, with five in critical condition admitted to a hospital. Additionally, two local individuals sustained serious injuries during the altercation.
Expressing concern over the incident, RUET’s Deputy Director of Student Welfare, Dr. Abdullah Al Mahmud, stated, “RUET authorities have filed a case at Matihar Police Station, naming five individuals and accusing 50 unidentified others. We demand a thorough investigation to ensure maximum punishment for the attackers. The case will continue until justice is served.”
Officer-in-Charge of Chandrima Police Station, Motiur Rahman, confirmed that the injured were taken to the hospital and the situation was brought under control. He added, “The law enforcement agencies are working to maintain order, and necessary actions will be taken.”
According to local sources, RUET students Rocky and Shuvo visited a shop in Padma Residential’s Haji Mor area to make a purchase. After offering a 500-taka note, the shopkeeper insisted they buy additional items due to a lack of change. When the students refused, the shopkeeper allegedly misbehaved. Rocky reportedly exclaimed, “Are you crazy?” prompting the shopkeeper to assault him and grab him by the neck. Shuvo was struck on the head with a bamboo stick, causing a serious head injury.
The injured students called for reinforcements, leading 60-70 RUET students and faculty members to arrive at the scene. Law enforcement and military personnel also responded, but the situation escalated as local attackers armed with rods and machetes assaulted the students, leaving several gravely injured.
A local shopkeeper who witnessed the incident remarked, “What started as a minor argument spiraled into a serious conflict. One student was hit on the head, which enraged others and turned into a violent clash. The tension forced us to close shops and take shelter at home. Police and military intervention helped bring the situation under control.”
Currently, a tense atmosphere prevails in the area as authorities work to maintain peace.
