UTL slams 'Sada Dal' for its statement on DUCSU polls

The University Teachers Link (UTL), an association of teachers from public and private universities, has castigated the BNP-leaning teacher's platform "Sada Dal" for its statement alleging irregularities in the Dhaka University Central Student Union (DUCSU) election process.

"Although Sada Dal played a leading role in supervising the DUCSU election, they have now issued the statement," said the UTL calling it "a double standard and contradictory behaviour".

Speaking at a press conference held in front of the DUCSU building on Saturday, UTL Convener Professor Md. Ataur Rahman Biswas read out a written statement on the issue.

In his statement, Prof Biswas pointed out that since July, the university's administrative structure has largely been led by the teachers of the platform. According to him, deans of various faculties and provosts of 16 halls out of 18 are directly affiliated with this platform.

He further noted that among the 10 members of the DUCSU Election Commission, eight belonged to the "Sada Dal" and two represented the "Golapi Dal". Most of the returning officers and polling officers in the election were also active members of the Sada Dal.

"When the majority of election responsibilities were in the hands of Sada Dal teachers, their claims of fraud and irregularities fall into the category of double standards and contradictory behaviour. This raises questions about the moral standing of the teachers making such statements."

Prof Biswas added that before the voting began, empty ballot boxes were sealed in front of observers and journalists. Voting continued from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm without any incidents of fraud, ballot snatching, or CCTV blackouts. The vote counting was displayed live on LED screens, and results were announced in the presence of all concerned. "Still, the Sada Dal allegations of irregularities have deeply disheartened both students and teachers," he said.

He emphasised that victory and defeat are natural in a democracy and help develop students' political awareness and responsibility. "Dhaka University is not anyone's personal institution, it is a centre of free thought run with taxpayers' money. A mentality of domination undermines students' freedom of expression. Ignoring the voters' verdict to secure victory at any cost only creates division and conflict, damaging the academic environment. Such behaviour is nothing but a deliberate attempt to undermine democratic achievements."

At the press conference, UTL also made three demands which include addressing unreasonable questions raised about the election.

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