Clash between rival groups of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) at Kabi Nazrul CollegeTwo journalists assaulted while covering student clash in Dhaka

Two journalists were allegedly assaulted by activists of the Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) while carrying out their professional duties during a clash between rival groups at Kabi Nazrul Government College in the capital.

The incident took place around noon on Wednesday in front of the college’s main gate. The injured journalists were later rescued and taken to Dhaka National Medical College Hospital before being referred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital as their condition worsened.

According to reports, Biplob Sheikh, a correspondent for Daily Campus and office secretary of the Kabi Nazrul College Journalists’ Association, along with Obaidul Haque, a correspondent for Sonali News, approached the scene after noticing unrest between two factions of the student organisation.

Witnesses said that when the journalists began filming the conflict, JCD activists snatched their mobile phones and physically assaulted them.

Eyewitnesses further said that tensions had been simmering since the previous night, when a scuffle broke out between supporters of Convener Irfan Ahmed Fahim and Member Secretary Nazmul Hasan during a Pohela Baishakh concert organised by the student body. The dispute escalated again around 12:00 pm on Wednesday, leading to fresh clashes on campus.

Several activists, including Joint Convener Rocky, Ivan Sabbir, and others identified as Ujjal, Jibon, Mashrafi, Saif and Sabbir, allegedly attacked the journalists for recording the incident.

Biplob Sheikh said the attackers were armed with rods, knives and other locally made weapons.

“I started recording after seeing injured individuals. They tried to stop me and snatched my phone. When I attempted to film again, one of the leaders took my phone and verbally abused me. Despite identifying myself as a journalist, I was beaten with rods on my hands and legs,” he said.

Obaidul Haque said he was punched and later struck with rods on his head and legs after his phone was seized and thrown away.

Atik Hasan Shuvo, President of the Kabi Nazrul College Journalists’ Association, condemned the attack and demanded punishment for those responsible.

“We immediately ensured medical treatment for the injured journalists. We strongly protest this attack and demand justice,” he said.

A doctor at Dhaka National Medical College Hospital, Joy Hazra, said both journalists received primary treatment before being referred for advanced care.

JCD Convener Irfan Ahmed Fahim described the incident as “deeply regrettable” and said organisational action would be taken against those involved.

The organisation’s central president, Rakibul Islam Rakib, also assured that immediate steps would be taken.

College Principal Professor Mohammad Habibur Rahman said a written complaint had been received and that action would follow after an investigation.