Chittagong, August 3 — The anti-discrimination student movement turned violent in Chittagong on Saturday, leading to attacks on the residences of prominent political figures and the office of an Awami League MP. The incidents occurred in quick succession, resulting in vandalism and arson.

The unrest began around 4:30 PM when the office of Awami League MP Mohiuddin Bachchu, located at the Wasa intersection in the city, was attacked. Protesters vandalized the office and set it on fire. Two hours later, the residence of the late Mayor Mohiuddin Chowdhury, located in Chashma Hill No. 2 under the Panchlaish police station, was also targeted. At around 6:30 PM, a group of demonstrators damaged several cars and smashed windows at the property. 

The violence continued as the protesters attacked the residence of Chittagong Mayor Rezaul Karim Chowdhury in Bahaddarbari, Bahaddarhat, an hour after the initial assault on Mohiuddin Chowdhury's house. Fortunately, Mayor Chowdhury was not present at the time of the incident.

Additional Commissioner of Chittagong Metropolitan Police Tarek Aziz confirmed that the attacks followed a student-led movement at Chittagong's Newmarket Square. After the program concluded, participants vandalized properties, including the office of MP Bachchu and the homes of key political figures. 

The Education Minister, Mahibul Hasan Chowdhury Naufel, son of the late Mayor Mohiuddin Chowdhury, condemned the attack. This marks the first instance of such violence against Mohiuddin Chowdhury's residence in the 53 years since Bangladesh's independence.

Hasina Mohiuddin, widow of the late mayor, accused Jamaat-Shibir and BNP members of orchestrating the attack, calling for exemplary punishment for the perpetrators. Upon learning of the attacks, a large number of party activists gathered at the scene, denouncing the violence and demanding justice.

Mokhlesur Rahman, Deputy Commissioner of City Police (North), stated that the situation is now under control, with police presence heightened to prevent further incidents.

The wave of violence underscores the escalating tension in the region, as students and various groups intensify their protests, demanding significant political changes. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation to maintain order and prevent further violence.