Students of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU) vandalized structures being built for two fairs at the old trade fair ground in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, on Wednesday, protesting a plan to relocate the Secretariat there.
The university authorities later intervened and brought the students back to campus.
Police and people involved in the fairs said preparations were underway for a month-long Asia International Trade Fair and a week-long Youth Fair at the site, with gates and stalls being constructed for both events.
People involved in the construction alleged that 70-80 SAU students entered the grounds in the morning and damaged the structures. They also alleged that equipment and materials were taken away by the students, causing financial losses.
A person involved in building stalls for the Youth Fair, told Prothom Alo they had government permission to construct them and questioned why their work had been damaged over a dispute concerning the land.
SAU Acting Proctor Professor Tajul Islam said students had been protesting the Secretariat relocation plan for several days. The university administration would take steps to address their demands and prevent further vandalism, he said.
The students maintain that the old trade fair ground belongs to their university and should be returned for research activities. They oppose the proposed construction of the Secretariat there.
On Tuesday, students protested while soil testing was underway at the site for the proposed Secretariat. They took soil-testing equipment and two vehicles to the campus and boycotted classes and examinations. They also formed a steering committee to press for the return of the ground.
