Hathazari back to 'normal' after clashes over Facebook post

Authorities said the situation in Chattogram’s Hathazari has returned to normal after clashes between madrasa students and Sunni supporters triggered by a Facebook post.

Traffic resumed on Sunday morning, and shops reopened a day after the violence, police said. Officials will meet madrasa authorities and Sunni groups in the afternoon to prevent further unrest.

Kazi Md Tarek Aziz, additional superintendent of police (Hathazari Circle), said: “Both sides dispersed at night. The situation is normal now. Law enforcement patrols remain strong.”

“The Upazila administration and law-enforcing agencies will meet madrasa authorities and Sunni supporters to avoid any future incidents.”

The disturbances began on Saturday evening when students of Darul Uloom Mueenul Islam, widely known as Hathazari Madrasa, protested against a social media post mocking the institution. Followers of Ahle Sunnat also gathered in the Eleven Mile area.

Police detained the man behind the post, identified as Aryan Ibrahim, from Ward No. 2 of Fatikchhari on Saturday evening.

At least 100 people were injured in the clashes. The Chattogram Civil Surgeon’s Office said 80 received treatment at Hathazari Upazila Health Complex overnight, with three referred to Chattogram Medical College Hospital.

Authorities imposed Section 144, banning all gatherings in Hathazari Sadar amid simmering tensions.

The order, issued by Hathazari Upazila administration, was in force from 10pm Saturday until 3pm Sunday, covering the Hathazari Sadar area.

During this time, road connectivity between Chattogram, Khagrachari, Rangamati districts, and Fatikchhari and Raozan Upazilas was disrupted. Several vehicles were also vandalised.

Locals said many vehicles were stuck on both sides of the road during the clashes. Traffic eased after the groups dispersed. Although traffic was lighter on Sunday morning, flow gradually improved as the day progressed.