A student of Islamic University (IU) in Kushtia was found dead in a pond on the university campus on Thursday evening, sparking shock and calls for an immediate investigation from fellow students.
The deceased was identified as Sajid Abdullah, a first-year student of the Al-Quran and Islamic Studies department under the 2021–22 academic session. He hailed from Joypurhat district and was a resident student of Shah Azizur Rahman Hall.
According to campus sources, Sajid’s body was seen floating in a pond beside the residential hall around 6:30 pm. University police and security personnel recovered the body and rushed him to the IU Medical Centre. He was later referred to Kushtia General Hospital, where on-duty doctors pronounced him dead.
IU medical officer Ayesha Siddika said Sajid had likely drowned hours before the body was recovered. However, the exact cause of death will be confirmed following a post-mortem examination.
The incident has prompted widespread concern among students, many of whom gathered at the hospital and later at the administrative building, demanding a fair and transparent probe into the incident. Some students questioned whether the death was accidental or if foul play might be involved.
IU Proctor Professor M Anisur Rahman said, “We are treating the matter with utmost seriousness. An internal investigation has been launched and the police are conducting their own inquiry as well.”
Kushtia’s Islamic University Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mostafizur Rahman said the body has been sent for autopsy and police are collecting CCTV footage and eyewitness accounts.
No case had been filed as of Friday morning.
The IU administration has expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and assured full cooperation with the investigation.
The campus remained tense as students demanded answers, but classes continued without interruption.
