University Teachers’ Network demands justice amid violence in hills and campus

Universtiy Teachers' network on Saturday demands justice for violence-murders in hills and campuses. They held a protest rally  at the foot of Aparajeya Bangla of Dhaka University premises. 

They also urged not to ban student politics, stating, "Through politics, we achieved our language rights, secured independence in 1971, and the anti-discrimination movement of 2024 helped topple a dictator. We cannot ignore the role of politics; if it is banned, what will students do at university? Simply sing, play, or study flowers and birds?"

Kamal Uddin, a professor at the Clinical Psychology Department, expressed concern over the mental state of the perpetrators, asserting, "Those who commit such acts are profoundly disturbed. Their actions are indicative of a complete lack of humanity, fuelled by a toxic culture that has been allowed to fester at this university for years."

Samina Lutfa, an Associate Professor of Sociology, raised critical questions about the university administration's response, noting, "In light of the recent murders at both Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University, the administration declared itself free from political engagement. What justifies this stance? If banning politics is the solution, the administration must take responsibility for these events."

Other faculty members highlighted the unfair labelling of activists in the hills as separatists, questioning the rationale behind such accusations. They criticised the administration’s apparent indifference, stating, "Significant incidents have occurred at two universities, yet the administration claims ignorance."

In a pointed reminder to those in charge, the teachers declared, "Remember, you are not empowered; you have been entrusted with responsibilities. It is imperative that you fulfill these duties effectively."

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