Rajshahi, July 18 (V7N)- In Rajshahi, clashes erupted between Awami League activists and quota reform protesters, accompanied by multiple bomb explosions. According to reports, at least 5 people, including Rajshahi Metropolitan Chhatra League's general secretary Dr. Sirajum Monir Sabuj, were injured in the violence and have been admitted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, with one identified as a businessperson. 
 
Eyewitnesses reported that around 8 to 10 homemade bombs exploded during the clash at Sahab Bazaar Zero Point, where Awami League activists confronted protesters wielding batons. In response to the demonstrators' resistance, explosions from homemade bombs occurred, leading to Awami League activists apprehending and assaulting two to three individuals. 
 
The situation was later pacified with the presence of AHM Khairuzzaman Liton, a member of the Awami League's presidium, who appealed for protesters to return home safely by bike. Furthermore, Raffin Hasan Arnoab, coordinator of the anti-violence student movement in Rajshahi, condemned the aggression, urging students to disperse. However, Khairuzzaman warned against any violence, assuring that the Awami League is present at multiple points to prevent any form of conflict escalation.
 
Due to the clashes, shops in the Sahab Bazaar area remained closed, and vehicular movement in the city was significantly reduced. Additionally, bus services between Rajshahi and outlying areas were suspended due to the blockade. However, internal bus services within the city continued uninterrupted. 
 
Meanwhile, the situation at Rajshahi University remained relatively normal, with a majority of students vacating the campus. Officer-in-Charge Humayun Kabir of Boalia Police Station stated that activists from Chhatra League and student wings attempted to control the Sahab Bazaar Zero Point by wielding batons and sticks in the name of the quota protest. They were later dispersed by the police, including Awami League activists, resulting in calm being restored to the city.
 
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