Skip to content

Clash Over Adivasi Identity in Textbook Sparks Violence in Dhaka

Bangladesh: Islamists attacked protesting Janajatiya students in Dhaka, 22 injured
Activists of Islami Chatra Shibir, disguised as 'Students for Sovereignty,' ruthlessly assault indigenous students protesting the removal of their 'Adivasi' (indigenous) identity from school textbooks. The incident took place outside the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) building in Dhaka on January 15, 2025.

Minority Watch, Dhaka— At least 22 people were injured as an Islamist group attacked indigenous students who were protesting the removal of their “Adivasi” (indigenous) identity from school textbooks on Wednesday in Dhaka.

The clash occurred outside the National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) building, with protesters, journalists, and bystanders among those hospitalized.

The violence began around 1 PM in the Motijheel area when a group of indigenous students, protesting under the banner of “Sangkubdha Adivasi Chhatra Janata,” encountered resistance from another group, “Students for Sovereignty,” which is reportedly backed by Islami Chatra Shibir.

The indigenous protesters were demanding the reinstatement of artwork containing the Adivasi identity, which removed from the textbooks, while their opponents argued that such imagery threatened national unity.

Eyewitness Accounts of Violence

The indigenous group began their march from Dhaka University’s Raju Sculpture, passing several key landmarks before reaching the NCTB building.

“Students for Sovereignty” had already gathered at the site, and tensions quickly escalated as they confronted the arriving protesters, exchanging heated slogans.

The situation soon turned violent, with members of “Students for Sovereignty” reportedly armed with sticks and cricket bats.

Eyewitnesses and journalists on the scene described chaotic scenes, with “Students for Sovereignty” wielding sticks and cricket bats, forcing the indigenous protesters to retreat towards the Dainik Bangla intersection.

Photojournalist Mahmud Zaman Ovi, who captured the disorder, explained, “Police attempted to mediate, but the situation spiraled out of control when the attacks began.”

Shantimoy Chakma, an indigenous student activist, said, “When we took a stand, some unidentified individuals from ‘Students for Sovereignty’ suddenly attacked us with sticks.”

Alik Mri, an organizer of the indigenous student protest, told Minority Watch, “Eleven of our members were injured in the attack.” Conversely, Muhammad Ziaul Haque Zia, convener of “Students for Sovereignty,” claimed, “Fourteen of our members were injured by the indigenous students. We demand justice.”

Inspector Mohaiemenul Islam of Motijheel Police provided an update, saying, “The indigenous protesters fled after being chased by students. The situation is now under control, with students occupying one side of the road.”

Medical officials confirmed that nine individuals, including journalists, were treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Among the injured were indigenous activists Dhanjetra, Attila Dhamai, Futon Chakma, and Isaba Shuhrat. DBC News journalist Jewel Marak was also hospitalized.

In response to the violence, the indigenous group announced plans for continued protests, including nationwide demonstrations on January 16 and a planned siege of the Chief Advisor’s office on January 17. “We will remain on the streets until our demands are met,” said Mri, calling for support from progressive individuals and organizations.

Underlying Controversy

The clash stems from the January 12 removal of artwork in a Bengali textbook, which depicted a tree with leaves labeled “Muslim,” “Hindu,” “Christian,” “Buddhist,” and “Adivasi,” accompanied by the phrase “Do not tear the leaves.”

The term “Adivasi” had been contested by “Students for Sovereignty,” who argued that it was politically charged and posed a threat to national unity.

However, the indigenous group insists that their identity and cultural heritage deserve acknowledgment. “We are citizens of Bangladesh and have equal rights,” said Mri, criticizing the removal of the artwork as an act of discrimination.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions in Bangladesh regarding representation and identity. Indigenous groups are demanding recognition in educational materials, while “Students for Sovereignty” asserts that such acknowledgment could undermine the integrity of the nation.

Inspector Islam confirmed that police are investigating the incident. “The situation is under control now,” he said. However, the broader debate over inclusion and sovereignty continues to fuel divisions across the country.

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on whatsapp
Share on email

You may also like

subscribe to our newsletter

I expressly agree to receive the newsletter and know that i can easily unsubscribe at any time

Would You Help?

Minority Watch gives a voice to the voiceless and delivers vital information to you. Your gift ensures our mission continues, empowering marginalized communities.

Join our Mailing list!

Get all latest news and updates.