Rajshahi University students demand action against Rucsu, Shibir over campus violence

A group of Rajshahi University students formed a human chain today (29 July), demanding action against leaders of Chhatra Shibir and the Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (Rucsu) over the alleged assault on three students inside the university’s central library.

The protest was held in front of the library around noon under the banner of general students.

Rajshahi University Chhatra Dal President Sultan Ahmed Rahi, Organising Secretary Mahmudul Hasan Mithu and other students addressed the gathering.

The speakers alleged that Shibir and Rucsu leaders entered the library and assaulted the students.

They also referred to an earlier assault on a student inside the proctor’s office, saying the incidents had undermined security on campus.

The protesters demanded that the students involved in the attacks be expelled and their studentships cancelled within 10 days.

They also called for the arrest and prosecution of those responsible, the removal of the Rucsu representatives involved from their posts, and an investigation into allegations that Rucsu members assaulted a student at the proctor’s office.

They further demanded an investigation into allegations of harassment of a female student that led to the clashes and appropriate legal and administrative action against those found responsible.

Rahi said the university administration must take action against Rucsu General Secretary Salahuddin Ammar, remove him from office and hold a fresh Rucsu election.

“Rucsu’s function is not to engage in militancy on campus,” he said.

The clashes stemmed from a complaint that a Sanskrit department student had harassed a female classmate after she rejected his romantic proposal.

The dispute escalated during meetings at the proctor’s office on Sunday (26 July), where one student was allegedly assaulted after being accused of links with the banned Bangladesh Chhatra League.

Later, three students were beaten inside the university library after another confrontation with Rucsu and Chhatra Shibir activists.

Several students who tried to intervene were also allegedly assaulted before teachers, the proctorial body and police brought the situation under control.

After the incident, Rucsu and Shibir activists demonstrated in front of the administration building demanding action against alleged Chhatra League activists, while Chhatra Dal held a separate protest rally condemning the assault inside the library.

Yesterday (28 July), police arrested Md Anas and Mahmudul Hasan, who were earlier assaulted by Rucsu leaders and Shibir activists, in connection with a previously filed case over alleged criminal activities linked to the banned Bangladesh Chhatra League.

The university administration also formed a five-member investigation committee, headed by Professor Md Rezaul Karim of the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, to establish the facts surrounding the incident and recommend disciplinary action as soon as possible.