Dhaka University’s proctorial team has cleared illegal shops, floating people and homeless individuals from different parts of the campus through an overnight drive.
A group of evicted street vendors protested the move, joined by several left-leaning student organisations active on campus. Their leaders said such drives are “inhumane” and deprive vulnerable people of their livelihood.
In response, leaders of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) and hall unions organised a counter rally near the proctor’s office, opposing the left groups and the hawkers.
The tension kept the campus on edge throughout Saturday night.
Later that night, DUCSU leaders met an assistant proctor and demanded disciplinary action against the students who joined the protest in favour of the hawkers. They also submitted video footage of the demonstrations.
“Our campus is being breached constantly by outsiders,” said DUCSU Social Services Secretary AB Jubayer. “Many have started living permanently under or around the metro rail tracks. Some are involved in drug use and trade, and they commit crimes like mugging at night.”
He alleged that allowing homeless people to stay around the campus enables criminal networks to remain active.
Assistant Proctor Prof Rafiqul Islam told reporters that show-cause notices will be issued against the students involved. He stressed that no illegal shop will be allowed to operate on campus and those joining rallies in support of hawkers will face consequences.
“Most students demanded the removal of these shops,” he said. “We cannot ignore their concerns because of opposition from a few individuals or former students.”
The eviction drive was conducted with assistance from Dhaka Metropolitan Police, Dhaka South City Corporation, metro rail authorities and volunteers from Green Future.
Expressing solidarity with the hawkers, Socialist Students’ Front DU unit convener Mozammel Haque said Dhaka University should teach students to be humane.
“What has been done in the name of eviction is unacceptable,” he said. “People who have been here for years cannot be removed without alternative employment. This will bring no positive outcome.”
