A Chhatra Dal leader has resigned, voicing criticism of the BNP’s position on the July referendum

Dhaka University unit Chhatra Dal joint general secretary Sheikh Shovon has stepped down from his post, citing disagreements with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s stance on the July referendum and broader reform issues.

He announced his resignation in a Facebook post on the afternoon of April 16, pointing to a growing ideological rift with the party’s recent positions and activities.

In his statement, Shovon said the party’s opposition to the July pledge, along with what he described as a “questionable role” in the reform process, compelled him to resign. He warned that the spirit of past movements and sacrifices was being undermined in the current political climate.

“The country is passing through a critical time where the legacy of struggles is ignored and the sacrifices of martyrs are not given due respect,” he wrote, adding that conflicts between personal and group interests were harming national priorities.

A law student from the 2015–16 academic session, Shovon had been active in Chhatra Dal politics since his first year at university and continued his involvement despite repression during the Awami League government.

In his resignation note, he said his decision reflected a fundamental divergence between his personal ideals and the party’s current direction. He reaffirmed his commitment to national interests, stating: “The state is supreme—the party is only a part of it. There can be no compromise on the issues of the state’s interests, justice and sovereignty.”

He also indicated that he would remain politically active and continue to take part in movements related to the country’s independence, dignity and justice.

Speaking to Daily Sun, Shovon further criticised the positions of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami on reform issues, saying they were misleading the public. He added that the party’s opposition to the July pledge had created a “questionable stance,” ultimately leading to his disillusionment.

He concluded that recent actions by the party appeared increasingly anti-people, prompting his resignation.