Allegation of Harassment Against Student Leader at Begum Rokeya University

A second-year student of the Department of Public Administration at Begum Rokeya University (BRUR) and Bangladesh Chhatra Dal activist, Sanjid Sarkar (known as Smaran), has been accused of ragging and mentally harassing a female freshman from the same department.

According to the written complaint submitted by the student, several immediate seniors, including Smaran from the 16th batch of the Public Administration Department, lured her to a class between 24 and 26 August under false pretences, despite her not having classes. She alleges that, in front of the class representative (CR) and other students, her personal matters were publicly insulted in an indecent manner. She was not given an opportunity to present her side of the story.

The complaint further states that after the incident, the student was held on the university grounds for nearly two hours and her mobile phone was confiscated. Her parents were unable to contact her despite multiple attempts.

The victim also reported that those involved issued direct threats, warning her not to report the matter to the proctor or any other shelter authorities. She was allegedly intimidated to the extent of being forced to speak over the proctor’s table. Additionally, the accused reportedly made derogatory remarks about the faculty members present.

The student lodged a formal written complaint with the Head of Department on 10 September. A copy of the complaint reached journalists on Tuesday, 16 September. In the document, she expressed concern that, if her mental safety is not ensured, she may be forced to leave the campus.

Sanjid Sarkar (Smaran), the accused, denied the allegations, stating, “This is a false accusation. Even before her arrival on campus, the student was reportedly seen in inappropriate situations with various people across the campus. We initially considered submitting a written complaint to the department chairman, but later decided not to. We called her to explain that such behaviour is unacceptable and damaging to reputation. Moreover, she cannot be found at department or campus programmes, even when juniors are instructed to attend.”

Rashed Mondal, Secretary of the University Chhatra Dal branch, stated,
“I will personally speak to Smaran. If the allegations are found to be true, action will be taken against him. Chhatra Dal does not support such behaviour under any circumstances.”

Mujahidul Islam, Head of the Public Administration Department, commented,
“We have received a formal complaint. The accused were given an opportunity to present their side. They submitted a counter-complaint against the student. The matter will be discussed at the Academic Council. If unresolved there, it will be referred to the Disciplinary Board.”

Incident Timeline (Summary)

This case has raised concerns over the mental safety of students on campus and the responsibility of university authorities to ensure a safe learning environment.