Dhaka, January 27 — The clash between Dhaka University (DU) students and those from seven affiliated colleges on Sunday night has been described as "unfortunate and regrettable" by DU Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed. In a 35-second video message released in the early hours of Monday, he expressed his deep sorrow over the incident and urged all parties to maintain patience.

The altercation reportedly began after a meeting between the Pro-Vice-Chancellor and students from the seven colleges over a five-point demand turned contentious. Later in the evening, tensions escalated, culminating in physical confrontations near Dhaka University’s premises.

In the video message, Dr. Mamun Ahmed stated, “The unexpected events following my discussion with the students of the seven colleges last evening are deeply saddening. I am sincerely distressed by what transpired. I believe that mutual dialogue in a conducive environment will resolve this misunderstanding.”

He further appealed for calm, saying, “I earnestly request all parties to remain patient as tensions between Dhaka University and seven college students have risen due to this incident.”

The incident unfolded earlier on Sunday evening when students of the seven colleges arrived at the Pro-Vice-Chancellor's office to discuss their demands. Allegations surfaced that the Pro-Vice-Chancellor had behaved inappropriately during the discussion, leading to a protest by the students at the Science Laboratory intersection around 6:00 PM. The protestors issued an ultimatum, demanding an apology from Dr. Mamun Ahmed within a specified timeframe.

When no apology was forthcoming, a group of students announced their intention to march to Dhaka University and surround the Pro-Vice-Chancellor’s residence. Around 11:00 PM, they began their procession, eventually reaching the Nilkhet intersection near the university’s campus.

As the protest progressed, several hundred Dhaka University students emerged from various residential halls and confronted the protesting seven college students near the Liberation and Democracy Arch. The situation devolved into a series of chases and counter-chases, which continued into the early hours of Monday.

At least 20 individuals, including students, journalists, and bystanders, were injured during the confrontation. They received medical treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

The violent turn of events has sparked concerns among students and university authorities, with both sides calling for de-escalation and constructive dialogue to address the issues at hand.