Students under the banner of Jatiya Chhatra Shakti in Chattogram staged a “red card” protest and rally on Wednesday to denounce rising violence, territorial control and dominance in educational institutions across the city.
A large number of students joined the programme held in front of the Chattogram Press Club. The rally began at Jamal Khan intersection, marched through Cheragi Pahar intersection and concluded with a brief assembly outside the press club.
Speakers at the gathering demanded an end to violent campus politics, equal rights for all student organisations and the establishment of a safe environment for students.
They said recent incidents show that certain groups are attempting to turn educational institutions from spaces of learning into arenas of control, which they described as unacceptable.
Student leader Abdur Rahman said campuses do not belong to any particular group.
“Today’s red card is a clear message from the student community against those who seek dominance through violence and intimidation. We want a safe, terror-free environment where freedom of expression is ensured,” he said.
Rashid Rina expressed concern over repeated clashes on campuses, saying even minor issues such as wall writings are triggering violence.
“This reflects an unhealthy political culture. A united stance is needed against it,” he said.
Muntasir Mahmud called for a neutral role from authorities to ensure student safety.
“There can be no place for terrorism, control or fear on campus. If the administration fails to act impartially, the student community will build democratic resistance,” he said.
From the assembly, organisers announced a four-point demand: an end to all forms of violence in educational institutions, equal rights and security for all student organisations, declaration of campuses as free from control and terrorism, and a neutral and effective role by the administration.
Leaders concluded by stating that Jatiya Chhatra Shakti does not believe in conflict but will remain firm against injustice. They added that such programmes will continue in pursuit of a safe, democratic and student-friendly campus.
TDD/SHS
