Dhaka, Dec 29 (V7N) — The Dhaka University (DU) administration has expressed regret over an incident involving an attempt to erase graffiti depicting Sheikh Hasina on a Metrorail pillar near the university's TSC area. In a press release issued on Sunday, the administration called it an "unintentional mistake" by the proctorial team.

The graffiti, alongside one of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, symbolised resistance and revolution during the July Movement, representing the destruction of fascism. The removal attempt occurred late Saturday night, December 28, sparking criticism and concern among students and activists.

"It is our responsibility to preserve this memory and pass it on to future generations. The attempt to remove these graffitis was an unintentional mistake by the proctorial team, and we sincerely apologise. We will ensure such incidents do not recur."

The administration also confirmed that the removed graffiti was repainted shortly afterward in the presence of students and the proctorial team. Moving forward, the university plans to officially recognise the pillar as a "hate pillar" symbolising student resistance against fascism. The university administration has pledged to preserve this artwork as a testament to the collective memory of the student population.

The incident has sparked conversations about the importance of preserving symbols of resistance and the role of universities in fostering historical awareness. Students have expressed their satisfaction with the administration's prompt apology and decision to preserve the graffiti.

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