Jagannath University’s branch of Islami Chhatra Shibir organized a 100-boat rally on Dhaka’s Buriganga River on December 16 to commemorate Bangladesh’s Victory Day. Around 700 activists participated, wearing red and green shirts and carrying national flags. The rally began at Shyambazar Ghat, reached Postogola Bridge, and returned to its starting point, drawing attention from locals and media.

Speakers, including Shibir’s Jagannath University president and student panel candidates, said the event aimed to honor the Liberation War’s legacy while raising awareness about river conservation. They criticized river encroachment and pollution, alleging that India’s upstream water control has harmed Bangladesh’s major rivers such as Teesta and Feni. The organizers also condemned a recent social media post by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling it disrespectful to Bangladesh’s independence.

The rally’s combination of patriotic celebration and environmental advocacy highlighted growing student activism around national sovereignty and ecological issues. Authorities have not commented on the event or its political undertones.