Rajshahi, May 20 (V7N) – A student at Rajshahi University (RU) was injured after being stabbed by muggers on Monday night (May 19th) near the university's Liberation War memorial (Boddhobhumi).
The injured student, Arafat Shawon, a recent postgraduate of the Social Work department (2018-19 academic year), is currently receiving treatment at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH).
Incident Details
According to university sources, Shawon was walking back to his hall around 8:30 PM when he was intercepted by several muggers. A scuffle ensued when they attempted to snatch his mobile phone. During the altercation, the assailants stabbed him twice in the abdomen before fleeing the scene. Despite his injuries, Shawon managed to reach the university medical center on his own, from where he was then transferred to RMCH. He has undergone surgery and is now in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).
Investigation and Student Concerns
Professor Mahbubur Rahman, the university's proctor, confirmed that Arafat Shawon suffered two stab wounds to the abdomen and underwent surgery last night. He stated that doctors have deemed Shawon out of danger. The proctor also mentioned that authorities have not yet found any direct eyewitnesses to the incident, and the proctorial body is actively investigating the matter.
In response to the incident, the university units of Chhatra Shibir, Chhatra Dal, and the Student Federation have issued separate statements strongly condemning the attack and demanding justice for those involved.
Their joint statement highlighted concerns about campus safety: "Ensuring security on this campus of 32,000 students is primarily the administration's responsibility, but in reality, this is not evident. This 753-acre campus lacks adequate lighting. The number of security personnel is also insufficient compared to the need. Although the security deficit has been a long-standing concern, the administration has yet to take sufficiently effective measures."
They urged the university administration to prioritize student safety, demanding sufficient lighting in all areas of the campus, regular security patrols, and immediate improvements to overall security, including gate control.

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