Chhatra Dal, the student wing of BNP, has expressed an interest in becoming more politically- active ahead of the much-anticipated Rajshahi University Central Students Union (Rucsu) election.
However, leaders of Chhatra League—the student body of the ruling Awami League—has warned that it is alert regarding attempts to create unrest—in the name of political activities— on the campus.
Dhaka Tribune has learned that the administration decided to ban all political activities on the campus, until further notice, on March 12, 2009, in a bid to ensure a proper academic atmospheric.
All political activities—such as: meetings; processions; using a loudspeaker to spread political messages; and distributing banners, posters and statements—were banned indefinitely.
Chhatra Dal fell inactive on the Rajshahi University campus following the administration's move. The party also halted its political activities on the campus.
Responding to a query, Rajshahi University (RU) unit Chhatra Dal General Secretary Kamrul Islam said: “We recently attended a dialogue centering on the Rucsu polls with the administration. We sought permission to conduct political activities on the campus.
“The administration asked us to wait for permission, but Chhatra League is carrying out their political activities as usual. Under the circumstances, ensuring coexistence will be difficult.”
Kamrul demanded that the ban of political activities on the campus be lifted immediately to allow active students’ organizations to conduct political activities.
Meanwhile, RU unit Chhatra League General Secretary Foysal Ahmed said: “We have no objection to Chhatra League’s political activities on the campus. However, we, with the support of students, will thwart any attempts to create unrest.”
Addressing the issue, RU Proctor Prof Lutfor Rahman said: “The ban on political activities on the campus will be lifted ahead of the Rucsu polls. We will bring the matter to the attention of the senior administrative officials of the university at the next syndicate meeting.
