Students-traders clash might not have turned so bad, had law enforcers intervened earlier: Dipu Moni

Regarding the clashes between students and traders in Dhaka's New Market area, Education Minister Dipu Moni today said had the law enforcers reached the spot earlier, the situation might not have turned this serious.

"Had members of the law enforcement agencies been there since morning, maybe, we don't know, the situation could have been a little better," the minister said.

Students and traders now need to be calm, she said while talking to media this afternoon.

Dipu Moni said, "It is very sad…. We often see that there are arguments between students of Dhaka College and other establishments nearby and it turns into a conflict."

"Some students were injured in the incident. We are looking into their treatment," she added.

The educational institutions will be closed on April 20 but Eid vacation for Dhaka College will start from today, Dipu Moni said.

Dhaka College will reopen on May 5 after Eid-ul-Fitr, she said, adding that the hostels will be closed at that time, he said.

"I request everyone not to listen to any rumours. Don't get excited by any kind of provocation. You have to remain calm. Any kind of problem can be solved through discussion," she said.

"The college and hostels will reopen on May 5. We'll solve the issue through discussion by this time. The government will do everything that needs to be done," Dipu Moni said.