The University Teachers' Network on Friday demanded that the Dhaka University campus remain open for vehicular and pedestrian movement as it was before.
They have observed that the sudden decision to restrict public access through the Dhaka University area has caused inconvenience and fostered negative perceptions about the institution.
In a press release, the University Teachers' Network said that members of the organization, comprising faculty from various universities, met with Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Niaz Ahmed Khan on Thursday to present their demands.
The University Teachers' Network said that on December 13, the university authorities erected barricades at seven entrances to reduce public crowding within the campus.
Subsequently, the Proctor's Office issued a notice restricting vehicular access during specific hours—Friday, Saturday, and public holidays from 3pm to 10pm, and on other days from 5pm to 10pm—except for vehicles with Dhaka University stickers and emergency services.
Since then, vehicular movement through the campus has been strictly regulated, causing severe traffic congestion in the surrounding areas.
The University Teachers' Network leaders urged the administration to reopen the campus for vehicular movement to alleviate Dhaka's traffic congestion.
They also presented two additional demands to the Vice-Chancellor.
Firstly, announcing the election dates for the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (Ducsu) and the Teachers' Association.
Secondly, ensuring that decisions on issues related to the Syndicate, Senate, Academic Council, and other socio-cultural matters are made through stakeholder consultations.
The press release further said that the university administration's abrupt decision to limit public access has created inconveniences and negative perceptions about the institution.
It said that Dhaka University is a historically significant public space for Bangladesh, having served as the epicenter for numerous national and political movements, including the 2024 mass uprising.
The campus is also a hub for intellectual and cultural activities.
Roads managed by the city corporation that pass through the campus are public rights of way for citizens outside the university.
Additionally, the press release said that the administration expressed regret for erasing graffiti commemorating the July Uprising from metro rail pillars near TSC.
Discussions also addressed the issue of "unjust policing" involving students of the Faculty of Fine Arts on Tuesday, and concerns about the scope of the Proctorial Team's authority were raised.
It was advised that the proctor should remain within the bounds of their responsibilities and avoid retaliatory or biased actions.
