Kushtia, Jan 29, (V7N) - Students from the Development Studies department at Islamic University in Kushtia held a protest on Tuesday, demanding the permanent expulsion of Assistant Professor Hafizul Islam. The demonstration began at Bottola, with students marching through the campus before gathering in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s Residence.

During the protest, the students chanted several slogans, including "Remove Hafiz, Save the Campus," "Punishment or Leave, Punishment, Punishment," "We Reject the University’s Farce," and "No place for Homosexuals on this Campus."

According to the students, although the university administration took six months to investigate the allegations against Professor Hafizul Islam, the decision was made to place him on a one-year compulsory leave. The students argued that this punishment was insufficient, claiming that the professor had insulted parents in class and promoted homosexuality. They are calling for his permanent expulsion from the university.

Kazi Mustafa Arif, the head of the Investigation Committee, explained that the committee had recommended punishment based on the evidence gathered. However, he clarified that the final decision rests with the university administration.

Pro-Vice-Chancellor Dr. M. Yaqub Ali stated, "The university administration has placed Hafizul Islam on a one-year compulsory leave, which is equivalent to suspension. Only the university’s chancellor has the authority to make a decision regarding dismissal. We are following the necessary legal procedures."

He further added, “We understand the students' concerns and agree with their demands. We are taking this matter seriously and are following the legal steps required.”

Earlier, on January 25, an office order signed by Acting Register H.M. Ali Hasan announced the decision to place Hafizul Islam on a one-year compulsory leave and cancel his annual increment due to the serious nature of the allegations against him.

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