The Dhaka University (DU) unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal on Saturday renewed its call for Vice-Chancellor Prof ASM Maksud Kamal and Proctor Prof Saifuddin Ahmed to resign, accusing them of failing to ensure campus security following the murder of student Shahriar Alam Shammo.
At a press briefing at Madhur Canteen, Chhatra Dal President Ganesh Chandra Roy Shahosh criticised police handling of the May 13 stabbing at Suhrawardy Udyan, citing “unprotected crime scenes, missing CCTV footage, and police allegedly releasing suspects”, reports BDnews24.
Shahosh rejected DMP’s claim that Shammo died from a taser injury, noting autopsy reports confirmed fatal knife wounds. He alleged university inaction against “Bangladesh Chhatra League criminals” in student halls and accused the administration of favouring “Awami League-aligned factions”.
Meanwhile, Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed defended security measures, stating: “DU has never been safer.”
When contacted by reporters, the DU proctor assured, “Under our watch, we’ve brought control over outside influence. No unauthorised vehicles are entering the campus, and the proctorial team, Ansar, and volunteers are working round the clock to ensure campus safety.
“We’ve also cut off all access to Suhrawardy Udyan. I believe our efforts are visible. While student expectations are high, we have made every possible effort,” he added.
However, citing a witness account shared online, JCD leader Shahosh said that several police officers were reportedly present when Shammo was fatally stabbed.
“When the angry crowd tried to hand the attackers over to the police, the officers allegedly encouraged them to let the suspects go. To date, the authorities have not explained why or under whose orders the suspects were released.”
Additionally, the DU JCD unit president, as he demanded the resignation of the VC and proctor, alleged that the university administration has shown reluctance in identifying and prosecuting Chhatra League activists hiding in residential halls.
“Through various tactics, the university administration has empowered officials, teachers, and staff aligned with Awami fascism, while marginalising those previously involved in anti-fascist movements,” he opined.