Dhaka, Jan 27 (V7N) — Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University (DU), Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, has called an emergency meeting with the principals of seven government colleges affiliated with DU. The meeting is scheduled for Monday (January 27) at 12:30 pm in the Vice-Chancellor’s meeting room.

The meeting, announced through a press release signed by Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Acting Director of DU’s Public Relations Department, will address various student-related issues amidst escalating tensions.

Background of the Tensions

On Sunday evening, students from the seven affiliated colleges staged a protest at the Science Lab intersection, alleging mistreatment by DU Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) Professor Dr. Mamun Ahmed when they sought updates on their five-point demands.

The protest escalated late at night as students from Dhaka College, joined by others from affiliated colleges, marched toward the DU Deputy Vice-Chancellor’s residence. DU students intercepted the procession at the Nilkhet intersection, leading to a confrontation that devolved into brick-throwing and clashes lasting until 3 am.

Law enforcement, including police and four platoons of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), were deployed to control the situation. Tear gas and sound grenades were used to disperse the crowd. Several individuals, including a pedestrian, sustained injuries and are being treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

Exam Postponements

In response to the unrest, DU authorities postponed all classes and examinations scheduled for January 27. This decision also applies to the seven affiliated colleges. A notification from the Controller of Examinations, Md. Bahalul Haque Chowdhury, confirmed that the rescheduled dates will be announced later.

Vice-Chancellor’s Statement

Expressing regret over the incident, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan urged students to maintain patience, harmony, and unity. “The country is going through a transitional period. It is essential to ensure no third party exploits the situation,” he said.

The Vice-Chancellor emphasized the importance of resolving student grievances through discussion and announced that unresolved issues would be referred to a government-formed committee for resolution.

The emergency meeting aims to address the concerns of students and restore calm and normalcy across the university and its affiliated colleges.

END/AJ/RH