AL high-ups fed up with BCL
Abu Jakir :
In a notable development, high-ranking officials within the ruling Awami League have expressed deep concern and frustration over the alleged involvement of leaders and activists from its student wing, Bangladesh Chattra League (BCL), in various unethical, illegal, and controversial activities.
The party, in power for four consecutive terms, is facing criticism as BCL appears to deviate significantly from its core principles of education, peace, and progress.
Recent headlines have been dominated by negative discussions about the country’s oldest student organisation, shedding light on instances of corruption, tender manipulation, seat trafficking, and the abuse of power.
The dissatisfaction among Awami League stalwarts is palpable as they witness their student wing veering away from the principles the party upholds.
Sujit Roy Nandi, an organising secretary of the ruling Awami League conveyed to this correspondent their deep concern regarding the recent activities of certain BCL leaders and activists.
The matter of Chattra League is currently under discussion among the party high-ups, and urgent measures will be implemented against BCL members engaged in controversial activities.
One of the recent incidents that brought intense scrutiny upon BCL is a case of sexual assault at Jahangirnagar University.
On the night of February 3rd, during a residential hall event, allegations of sexual assault were raised against six individuals, including Mustafizur Rahman, a 45th batch student in the Department of International Relations and the International Affairs Secretary of the Chattra League, along with his acquaintance Mamunur Rashid Mamun.
Subsequently, the victim filed a case under the ‘Prevention of Women and Children Repression Act’ at Ashulia Police Station.
Teachers and students, in response, are actively engaging in a continuous protest under the banner of the ‘Anti-Oppression Platform,’ demanding justice for the victims and stringent actions against the accused.
The situation takes a more alarming turn at Chittagong University (CU), where leaders and activists of three factions of Chhatra League have been embroiled in a continuous clash for three days, occupying a tea stall on campus.
Approximately 70-80 individuals, including leaders, activists, and the police, have sustained injuries. In response to the internal conflict within Chhatra League at CU, Education Minister Mahibul Hasan Chowdhury Nawfel has urged the university administration to take strict measures.
A meeting between university authorities and law enforcement agencies is scheduled for Sunday to address and control the ongoing conflict and unrest.
Similarly, at Dhaka University (DU), clashes have erupted between supporters of two top leaders of Chhatra League surrounding Saraswati Puja concerts.
Fifteen leaders and activists have been injured, with one individual in critical condition receiving medical treatment in the ICU of a hospital.
Meanwhile, in Jagannath University (JnU), several leaders and activists of Chhatra League have been injured in clashes between two groups.
Seeking to address the growing concerns, Chhatra League’s Central General Secretary Sheikh Wali Asif Inan emphasised the organization’s commitment to maintaining an organised educational environment.
He acknowledged that mistakes or deviations can occur in such a large organisation but expressed determination to address issues and challenges, transforming Chhatra League into an exemplary organisation.
As the ruling party’s student organisation undergoes internal turmoil, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader announced a reevaluation of strategies during a press conference in Dhanmondi on Tuesday.
