The upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and Referendum have stirred significant activity across Dhaka University.
As the first election following the political transition after the July 2024 uprising, this election has garnered much attention, especially among young voters keen to participate in their first ballot.
To accommodate this, the university administration announced online classes for the 9th and 10th, followed by academic and administrative holidays from the 11th to the 12th. Combined with government holidays on the 13th and 14th, students have been granted a six-day break.
However, the atmosphere within the residential halls is divided, with many students having already left for their constituencies, while others remain on campus.
A large number of students at the university come from districts outside Dhaka and reside in the halls. Many, particularly first-time voters, are excited to cast their ballots in what they regard as a “change-defining” election.
Saifa, a student of Shamsunnahar Hall and a voter in the Barisal-5 constituency, arrived in her voting area several days in advance. Expressing her excitement, she noted that candidates who prioritise all sections of society rather than focusing on specific groups would likely have the upper hand. She also expressed her hopes for a fair and peaceful election day.
Barriers to Participation
Not all students, however, are able to make the journey home. Interviews with at least 20 residential students from distant districts revealed that high travel costs and the arduous nature of the trip have forced many to remain in their halls. For those from northern or coastal districts, the journey is both time-consuming and expensive.
Musaddiqur Rahman Riyad, a student of Zahurul Huq Hall and a voter from North Bengal, is staying back due to professional pressures, the late announcement of the holiday, and increasing travel costs. He explained that fares have risen from Tk 700 to Tk 1,200, and the round trip would take up three of his six-day break. He expressed his disappointment at missing the opportunity to vote.
Similarly, Rohit Karmakar from Jagannath Hall, whose voting centre is in Rajshahi, remains in Dhaka due to a shortage of tickets and severe traffic congestion. Public transport is under immense strain, making it difficult for many students to secure travel.
Campus Political Atmosphere
Despite these challenges, political engagement on campus remains high. Discussions about candidates and the referendum are frequent at tea stalls and on social media, particularly within the private Facebook group “Dhaka University Student Parliament.
” Many observers believe the decisions of these young voters will be a “crucial factor” in the upcoming election.
