A division within the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement led to a tense standoff on Chittagong’s busy Lal Khan Bazar road, causing severe traffic disruptions for over seven hours. The protest ended at 9:00 PM on Tuesday, February 18, when one faction of the movement gave central leaders a 24-hour ultimatum before vacating the street.
Earlier in the day, a group dissatisfied with the newly formed committee of the movement staged a sit-in after issuing an ultimatum to cancel the committee. The protest, which started shortly after a press conference at the Chittagong Press Club, led to major traffic jams in Lal Khan Bazar and surrounding streets, spreading across the city. Commuters, particularly working individuals, faced immense difficulties reaching their destinations.
Meanwhile, another rally, organized by the newly formed Anti-Discrimination Student Movement in Chittagong’s North and South Metropolitan branches, marched from the city’s No. 2 Gate, Revolution Park, towards Lal Khan Bazar. However, the police redirected the procession as it reached Wasa Mor, and it eventually concluded at Kazir Dewri.
Coordinator Jubayer Manik explained the reason behind the protest: “We had previously given an ultimatum until 3 PM for the committee to be canceled. After speaking with the central executive members, we found that they agreed there were issues with the committee. However, we also learned that Hasnat Abdullah is adamant about keeping the current committee intact. Therefore, we can clearly say that the committee, which includes members involved in serious issues such as juvenile gangs and allegations of harassment, directly involves Hasnat Abdullah.”
Earlier that day, at 12 PM, a press conference was held by a faction of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement in Chittagong. The group outlined three demands, including the cancellation of the new committee, and gave an ultimatum until 3 PM for their demand to be met.
