Sylhet, Mar 08 (V7N) -  A rift has emerged within the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement in Sylhet over the formation of its committee. Discontent has arisen due to the inclusion of individuals not previously involved in the movement, including those linked to Chhatra League politics. As a result, protests, rallies, and press conferences have taken place, and one member has already resigned from the committee. Amid this unrest, the formation of subcommittees for private universities and medical colleges has been stalled. However, movement leaders claim some individuals are spreading misinformation for personal gain, and show-cause notices have been issued against them.

On February 18, a faction of students from five private universities held a press conference declaring Sylhet coordinator Asadullah Al Ghalib undesirable and rejecting the metropolitan committee announced on February 16. They specifically protested the appointment of Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Majed, a Chhatra League-affiliated student, as the chief organizer. In response to the backlash, Ghalib suspended the metropolitan committee and announced via Facebook that it had been removed due to "unexpected mistakes" and would be restructured.

Tensions within the movement are not new. In October 2024, a group of 25 coordinators and co-coordinators labeled Sylhet district coordinator Golam Mortuza as an opportunist, claiming he misrepresented his role despite not being part of the movement before August 5. The central leadership had previously faced scrutiny over the formation of various district committees. When the Sylhet District Committee was announced on December 5, several members objected to the inclusion of individuals linked to Chhatra League and non-students.

Further controversy erupted when Jewel Ahmed, a member of the Sylhet District Committee, resigned on February 17. He cited dissatisfaction with the inclusion of members who had no prior involvement in the movement. On February 21, students organized a protest following the alleged beating of activist Mizanur Rahman Riyad at MC College hostel. However, district spokesperson Maleka Khatun Sara denied the organization's involvement, suggesting another faction had used their banner.

In response to allegations, district convener Akhtar Hossain dismissed claims of division, stating that some individuals were unhappy due to not receiving desired positions. He insisted that no faction has the authority to declare movement leaders undesirable and that those responsible for such claims have been held accountable. Akhtar further assured that the committee structure remains intact despite internal disputes.

While the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has played a key role in student activism, recent events indicate growing instability within its ranks. Disputes over committee appointments and political affiliations have shaken the movement’s credibility. With ongoing protests and leadership conflicts, it remains to be seen whether the organization can resolve its internal divisions and maintain its original objectives.

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