The violent clash that erupted on Monday between students of Shaheed Suhrawardy College and Dr Mahbubur Rahman Mollah College is a stark reminder of the destructive potential of internal conflicts within educational institutions.
This incident, which left over 50 individuals injured and resulted in extensive damage and looting, highlights a troubling trend that undermines the very foundation of academic environments.
Our newspaper reported that at the heart of this turmoil lies a cycle of retaliation and misinformation. The attack on Dr Mahbubur Rahman Mollah College was reportedly in retaliation for a previous incident involving vandalism at Dhaka National Medical College Hospital.
Such tit-for-tat violence not only disrupts the educational pursuits of countless students but also tarnishes the reputation of institutions that should be bastions of learning and growth.
The involvement of local residents in the clashes further complicates the situation, transforming what should be a controlled academic environment into a battleground.
Moreover, the spread of misinformation on social media exacerbates the chaos. Claims of fatalities among students, later debunked by authorities, serve only to inflame tensions and incite further violence.
The role of social media in disseminating false narratives cannot be overstated; it has the power to escalate conflicts and create a climate of fear and distrust.
Educational institutions must prioritise media literacy among students to combat this dangerous trend.
The response from law enforcement, including the filing of cases against 8,000 students for vandalism and the deployment of the Bangladesh Border Guard, underscores the severity of the situation. However, such measures often lead to a cycle of repression rather than resolution. Instead of fostering a culture of dialogue and understanding, the heavy-handed approach may further alienate students and exacerbate existing grievances.
As we reflect on these events, it is crucial for educational institutions, government bodies, and civil society to come together to address the root causes of such violence. Dialogue, conflict resolution, and a commitment to fostering a culture of respect and understanding must replace the cycle of retaliation.
The future of our youth depends on their ability to engage constructively with one another rather than resorting to violence. It is imperative that we work towards a society where differences are resolved through conversation, not confrontation.
