ছবি: Photo: Collected
A meeting convened at Chittagong University (CU) to plan the observance of "National Student Solidarity Week," an initiative of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, revealed sharp divisions among student organizations. Held on Sunday, December 1, at 3:30 PM, the meeting included representatives from ten student groups, including the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Islami Chhatra Shibir, National Citizens Committee, Students' Rights Council, Islami Chhatra Majlis, Revolutionary Student Council, Islami Chhatra Andolon, Students' Alliance for Democracy, Anti-Discrimination Student Public, and Rights Protection Council. However, the absence of Bangladesh Chhatra Union and Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal sparked heated debate on campus and on social media, with concerns emerging about the growing political polarization.
Khan Talat Mahmud Rafi, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, expressed regret over the absence of major student groups, emphasizing that unity is essential to fight against fascism. He urged all groups to address grievances through dialogue rather than boycotting discussions, stating that the contributions of all student organizations were crucial during the July protests and will remain vital for future efforts. Islami Chhatra Shibir’s branch secretary, Muhammad Ibrahim, criticized the ongoing struggles of students 100 days after the collapse of the previous regime, questioning the effectiveness of policymakers in resolving systemic issues. He warned that continued neglect could lead to students withdrawing their support.
The National Citizens Committee’s central member, Zobayerul Hasan Arif, highlighted concerns about the lack of proper justice for the July massacre and the need for constitutional reforms to prevent authoritarian rule. Meanwhile, Islami Chhatra Majlis leader Sakib Mahmud Rumi lamented the absence of some active groups, calling into question the commitment of certain organizations to true solidarity. He argued that unity must go beyond slogans and banners, urging organizations to resolve past conflicts for the sake of greater cooperation.
Students' Rights Council member secretary Md. Roman Rahman criticized Chhatra Dal's absence, noting the party’s significant role in the July uprising. He stressed the need for accountability to students, who demand unity over division. Similarly, Aminul Islam Rakib, the publications and office secretary of Islami Chhatra Andolon, called for prolonged solidarity until a stable government is established, warning against the recurring threats posed by fascist forces.
In contrast, Sudipta Chakma, president of Chhatra Union’s CU branch, explained that their decision not to participate was guided by policy, stating they would not engage in any meeting involving Islami Chhatra Shibir. Attempts to contact Chhatra Dal leaders for comments were unsuccessful.
The initiative for a week-long observance of National Student Solidarity Week was announced on November 25 by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement to counter authoritarianism and address campus unrest. However, the absence of key groups and ideological rifts has raised questions about the feasibility of a unified student front, with many fearing that campus politics could remain divided despite calls for collaboration.
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