DU Pro-VC faces questioning by nationalist teachers

Sada Dal, a nationalist teachers' organisation at Dhaka University (DU), confronted Pro-Vice Chancellor Dr Mamun Ahmed on Sunday over allegations of patronising fascism and favouritism in faculty recruitment -- particularly the appointment of individuals linked to the now-banned Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL).

During the two-hour meeting, held on the campus, Sada Dal leaders directly questioned Dr Mamun over a series of controversial appointments.

Tensions reportedly ran high as the discussion devolved into a heated exchange.

The Pro-VC denied the accusations, insisting that all recruitment processes were conducted transparently and based on merit.

However, Sada Dal rejected his explanation, issuing a seven-day ultimatum for rectification.

The group warned that failure to act would prompt a protest movement and formal complaints to higher authorities.

In a statement issued after the meeting, Sada Dal alleged that Dr Mamun had appointed several BCL affiliates to faculty positions.

Among them was Sadia Afrin, former vice-president of the BCL unit at Bangladesh Kuwait Moitree Hall, who was recently appointed as a lecturer in the Department of Population Sciences.

The group also alleged that Mamun had attempted to appoint another activist, Anika -- previously expelled for exam hall misconduct -- to Dept of Disaster Management.

They claimed that Dr Mamun had secretly held meetings with Nil Dal, the pro-Awami League teachers' platform, and had awarded its members research grants and key roles in recruitment boards.

The group also blamed Dr Mamun for ongoing instability involving Dhaka University's seven affiliated colleges.

"We asked him several questions. He answered a few, but avoided most," said Dr Abul Kalam Sarker, joint convener of Sada Dal.

In response, Dr Mamun reiterated that all appointments were made according to due process, with candidates evaluated based on merit, character, and performance in viva voce.

Regarding Sadia Afrin, he said, "I was unaware of her political background. I learned about it today [Sunday] from the complainants."

On the allegation involving Anika, he said, "We investigated the cheating claim but found no supporting evidence."

Dr Mamun also expressed concern over Sada Dal's demand for pre-appointment consultations with them, calling it a threat to administrative neutrality.

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