Rajshahi University Faces Dean Resignations, Security Concerns

Amid escalating political tensions at Rajshahi University (RU), faculty members and administrative officials have raised urgent concerns over their safety, prompting a high-level meeting with the university administration. The session, held on Monday at the administrative building, also saw faculty requesting a temporary suspension of new appointments until security and operational stability are ensured. The meeting was predominantly attended by teachers aligned with the BNP.

Representatives from the Bangladesh University Teachers’ Association (UTAB), the Nationalist Teachers’ Forum, and the Zia Parishad participated in the discussions. Professor Abdul Alim, President of the Nationalist Teachers’ Forum, alleged, “A specific student faction has been threatening and harassing faculty, officers, and staff. They have gone as far as locking offices and creating a stifling work environment, exerting undue pressure on administrative personnel. Such behaviour falls outside any legitimate student responsibility.”

Meanwhile, the RU chapter of Chhatra Dal criticised the conduct of central student union general secretary Salahuddin Ammar, describing it as inappropriate and threatening. They emphasised the need for legal measures to prevent “strategic and unlawful behaviour” targeting staff and faculty.

Six Deans Resign

The political tension culminated in the resignation of six deans affiliated with the pro-Awami League panel, which was accepted by the Vice-Chancellor. Although the dean elections had been completed on 17 December 2023, the Vice-Chancellor had instructed that the outgoing deans remain in post until successors were appointed. However, under pressure from students and directives from Salahuddin Ammar, the resignations were finalised, coinciding with temporary lockdowns in some administrative offices.

Interim Administrative Assignments

Following the resignations, the Vice-Chancellor and two Pro-Vice-Chancellors have assumed temporary administrative responsibilities for the affected faculties.

Both faculty and student organisations stressed the urgent need for a secure and conducive academic environment. The university administration is actively taking measures to ease tensions and restore normal academic operations in the near future.