Lack of Liberation War-Centred Events at DU Prompts Student Backlash

The Dhaka University (DU) chapter of Jatiya Chhatra Shakti has expressed concern over the administration’s inaction in celebrating Victory Month. During a press conference at the DU Journalists’ Association office on Wednesday night, leaders of the university chapter said that Liberation War-related events and decorative lighting are absent from the campus this year.

Tahmid Al Muddassir Chowdhury, president of the DU chapter, stated that typically, the university hosts various events, commemorations, and lighting to celebrate Victory Month. However, students are not witnessing such a festive environment this year. He attributed the situation to the administration’s inactivity and the indifference of Dhaka University Central Student Union (DUCSU) representatives.

He added that following the earthquakes on 21 and 22 November, the administration hastily ordered halls to be vacated and classes and exams suspended. Students were forced to leave halls on just one day’s notice, which was widely criticised. Although the holiday was extended until 28 December, there was no clear information on hall conditions, technical inspections, or renovation progress.

He also expressed concern over distortions of Liberation War history. A DUCSU representative reportedly described the number of martyred and abused women freedom fighters as ‘thousands’, contradicting international reports documenting over 400,000 victims. Chowdhury said this constitutes historical distortion.

He concluded that the administration’s and elected representatives’ negligence is hindering Victory Month activities on campus. The unplanned holiday will exacerbate session backlog, and leaving exam decisions to students is unreasonable. He also accused attempts to politically control the university ahead of national elections.

KhaborwalaAJ