Students of the Theatre and Performance Studies Department at the Dhaka University formed a human chain on Tuesday, demanding justice over the death of student Munira Mahjabin Mimo and punishment for those allegedly involved.
The protest was held at the foot of the Aparajeyo Bangla sculpture on campus, where students also announced that they would continue boycotting all classes and examinations until effective action is taken against the accused teacher and student.
Several faculty members of the department joined the demonstration in solidarity.
Speaking at the event, student Ania Akter said a long-standing environment of alleged psychological and personal harassment by teachers had existed in the department, adding that Mimo’s death was a tragic consequence of that situation. She called for a fair and impartial investigation and demanded a safe academic environment on campus.
Department Chairperson Kazi Tamanna Haque Sigma said the department had already taken necessary steps and informed the university authorities. She added that the accused teacher, Sudip Chakroborthy, had been relieved of departmental responsibilities and assured support for student demands.
Master’s student Rafiul Rafi presented a set of demands on behalf of the protesting students, including immediate action against the accused teacher and another student identified as ‘Honey’, suspension of academic activities until action is taken, and permanent dismissal of the accused teacher from the university.
Students also demanded an end to alleged mental and physical harassment, pressure linked to academic results and job prospects, and swift dismissal of any teacher found guilty of misconduct.
Meanwhile, police have reportedly taken the accused teacher and a student into custody for questioning after a suicide note was recovered from Mimo’s diary. The note allegedly referenced the teacher and another student, according to sources.
In the note, the deceased student allegedly mentioned financial transactions and personal messages involving the individuals named in the complaint.
Munira Mahjabin Mimo, a master’s student of the 2019–20 session, reportedly died by suicide at her residence on 26 April, leaving behind a note referring to individuals from her department.
The incident has sparked widespread concern on campus, with growing calls for accountability, investigation, and stronger safeguards for student mental health and campus safety.
