Ethnic Minority Students attacked during Dhaka Protest

A protest led by ethnic minority students over Indigenous representation in Dhaka escalated into violence, leaving many injured.

Ethnic Minority Students attacked during Dhaka Protest f

Her head was bleeding after being repeatedly struck.

A peaceful protest by ethnic minority students in Dhaka turned violent, leaving at least 20 people injured, including several women.

The clash occurred near the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) office in Motijheel on January 15, 2024.

Students were protesting against the removal of the term “Adivasi” (indigenous) from school textbooks.

The situation escalated when the protestors were allegedly attacked by members of a group calling themselves “Students for Sovereignty.”

The protest was organised by a group named “Aggrieved Indigenous Student-Masses”, who were demanding the reinstatement of “Adivasi” in textbooks for grades IX and X.

Tensions rose around midnight when the two groups confronted each other, resulting in violence.

Witnesses reported that members of the attacking group wielded cricket stumps and sticks, some bearing national flags.

They were reportedly chanting nationalist and religious slogans during the assault.

Footage from the scene showed Rupaiya Shrestha Tanchangya, leader of the Students Against Discrimination platform, lying on the ground.

Her head was bleeding after being repeatedly struck.

Another protestor, Don, sustained fractures in both arms while trying to shield her.

Both were rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for treatment, with Rupaiya later transferred to Bangladesh Specialised Hospital.

Despite police presence at the site, witnesses alleged that law enforcement failed to prevent the violence.

Police also struck students in a bid to disperse them.

Some claimed the attack was premeditated, targeting indigenous activists advocating for their rights.

Civil society leaders and organisations, including the Communist Party of Bangladesh and Sammilita Samajik Andolan, have condemned the attack.

They said: “This planned attack on ethnic minority students damages the nation’s image and highlights ongoing repression of marginalised communities.”

The leaders also criticised the inaction of the police during the attack, demanding accountability and justice for the victims.

The Students for Sovereignty group denied allegations of initiating the violence, claiming their members were also injured.

However, eyewitnesses contradicted their statements, with reports of fabricated injuries involving bandages and ointments to simulate blood.

The interim government, led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, has strongly condemned the incident and ordered an investigation.

Two individuals have been taken into custody according to police officials.

Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Shahriar Ali claimed law enforcement intervened but failed to prevent the clashes.

Human rights organisations and activists have reiterated the need for stronger measures to protect the rights of indigenous communities.

They also called the removal of the term “Adivasi” a step backwards for representation and diversity.

Ayesha is our South Asia correspondent who adores music, arts and fashion. Being highly ambitious, her motto for life is, "Even the Impossible spells I'm Possible".




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