Photo: BSS

DHAKA, July 2, 2026 (BSS) - Leaders of the Dhaka University (DU) unit of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) early today held a press briefing at the playground of Kabi Jasimuddin Hall, alleging extortion, illegal detention and an online smear campaign centering on the screening of FIFA World Cup matches on a giant screen.

Addressing the press conference, DU JCD Office Secretary Mallik Wasi Uddin Tami claimed that the organisers had obtained permission from the relevant authorities to arrange the public screening of the matches.

He alleged that since June 16, the DUCSU-elected Kabi Jasimuddin Hall Union Vice President (VP) Muhammad Osman Gani, GS Masum Billah, AGS Hizbullah Al Hizul and Social Welfare Secretary Maruf had repeatedly demanded extortion money from the screen operators and event management personnel.

"They threatened to stop the screening unless their demands were fulfilled," Tami alleged.

On the night of June 22, the hall union leaders illegally detained members of the event management team, compelling the event sponsor to remove its promotional stall from the venue.

Tami also alleged that a false and defamatory campaign was carried out on several Facebook groups on the night of July 1, attempting to implicate JCD leaders who, he claimed, had intervened to resolve the June 22 incident.

He said a written complaint was submitted to the university Proctor on Wednesday, seeking action against those responsible.

"We demand exemplary punishment for those involved in the alleged extortion, illegal detention and smear campaign," he said.

Among others, DU JCD Sports Secretary Saifullah Saif, Communication Secretary Zobayer Ali, Assistant Literature and Publication Secretary Sajjad Hossain and Jagannath Hall Vice President Pallab Barman were present at the press briefing.