Student Protest at DU Over Jamaat Leader’s Controversial Post

Dhaka University witnessed a spirited protest by student activists from the Bangladesh Chhatra Dal on Sunday, following a contentious social media post attributed to Dr Shafiqur Rahman, the Amir of Jamaat-e-Islami. The post, shared via what is believed to be his former (ex-Twitter) account, drew sharp criticism for comparing working women to “modern-day prostitutes,” prompting widespread outrage among students.

The demonstration began at midday in front of the Madhur Canteen, a central campus hub, and proceeded along major thoroughfares within the university. The procession culminated in a brief gathering at Shahbagh, where participants voiced their dissent through a series of impassioned slogans condemning the statement.

Key figures in the protest included Chhatra Dal Dhaka University branch President Rakibul Islam Rakib and General Secretary Nasir Uddin, alongside numerous rank-and-file members. Organisers emphasised that the demonstration was peaceful but resolute, aimed at defending the dignity of working women and opposing misogynistic rhetoric in public discourse.

Chronology of Events

Earlier on Sunday, at 11:00 AM, Jamaat-e-Islami convened an emergency press briefing at its central office. The party alleged that Dr Rahman’s ex-account had been hacked in a premeditated conspiracy. “We were alerted to this breach yesterday at 5:00 PM,” said a party spokesperson. “The individuals responsible appear to have planned this over several days, and we believe a deeper conspiracy underlies the incident.”

The party’s statement underscored its position that the controversial post did not reflect the Amir’s views, while Chhatra Dal leaders insisted that accountability and ethical conduct on social media are essential, particularly for public figures.

The incident has sparked intense debate across Dhaka University and beyond, highlighting the growing concern over online platforms being misused to disseminate inflammatory content targeting women. Observers note that this episode may further intensify the scrutiny of political leaders’ social media presence in Bangladesh.