Several BCL leaders quitover 'attack' on protesters

Some Chhatra League leaders have announced their resignation over the Sunday's “attack” on agitating students demanding reform in quota for civil service recruitment.

Besides, many central and university unit leaders of Chhatra League, pro-Awami League student front, yesterday expressed their support for the movement.

The BCL leaders made their announcements in social media. Among them are Saifullah Saif, general secretary of Dhaka University tourism department BCL, Osibur Rahman, deputy hospitality secretary of Shaheed Sergeant Zahurul Haque Hall BCL, and Sharif Hasan Sujon, general secretary of applied physics department BCL.

In a Facebook post, Saifullah said the BCL was founded by the Father of the Nation; it plays a role in DUCSU and works to protect students' rights. The organisation is a friend of general students, he added.

He doubted whether the BCL was following Bangabandhu's ideals at all. “My Bangabandhu is different. That's why I am stepping down as the Chhatra League general secretary at the tourism and hospitality management department of Dhaka University. Enough is enough, no more!”

Osibur posted a copy of his resignation letter in Facebook citing “personal reason” for his decision.

Chhatra League sources said Osibur has been taking part in the ongoing movement.

The demonstration turned violent on Sunday as police fired teargas shells and rubber bullets, used water cannons and charged batons to disperse protesters who blocked the Shahbagh intersection for over five hours. At least 75 people were injured as cops clashed with students.