Rangpur, August 3 — Two police officers from the Rangpur Metropolitan Police (RMP) have been temporarily suspended following the death of Abu Saeed, a student at Begum Rokeya University, during a clash with police and Chhatra League members. The incident, which occurred on July 16, has sparked widespread outrage and led to the indefinite closure of the university.

The suspended officers, Assistant Sub-Inspector (ASI) Amir Hossain and Police Constable Sujan Chandra Roy, face allegations of unprofessional conduct during the violent confrontation. Deputy Police Commissioner Abu Maruf Hossain confirmed their suspension on Saturday afternoon, stating that departmental action will follow a thorough investigation into their actions.

The fatal incident occurred during a protest at the park intersection in front of Begum Rokeya University. Students had gathered to demand reforms in the national quota system, a contentious issue that has ignited protests across the country. The situation escalated when police and Chhatra League members attempted to disperse the demonstrators. According to eyewitnesses, police fired rubber bullets, tear gas, and live rounds to control the crowd. Abu Saeed, a prominent figure in the anti-quota movement and a 12th-batch student of the English Department, was fatally injured during the chaos.

In the aftermath of Saeed's death, tensions boiled over on the university campus. Protesters vandalized and set fire to residence halls, further escalating the situation. University authorities subsequently announced the indefinite closure of Begum Rokeya University, citing concerns for student safety and property.

Deputy Police Commissioner Maruf expressed his condolences for the tragic loss and emphasized the importance of a fair investigation. "The temporary suspension of the officers is a preliminary measure. We are committed to a transparent investigation and will take appropriate action based on the findings," he stated.

The incident has added fuel to the ongoing nationwide protests led by the anti-discrimination student movement. Students and activists have been vocal in demanding justice for Saeed and others who have suffered in the clashes. The government has faced increasing pressure to address the concerns of the protestors, with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina recently calling for dialogue with the student leaders.

As the investigation continues, the suspended officers remain under scrutiny, and the university community awaits justice for the events of July 16. The situation highlights the broader tensions surrounding the quota reform movement and the government's response to public dissent.