Dhaka, Feb 03 (V7N) — Students of government-run Titumir College have declared an indefinite shutdown from Monday (February 3), demanding that the institution be granted university status. The protesting students have vowed to continue their hunger strike and the ‘Barasat Barricade to North City’ program to press for their demands.

The announcement came late Sunday night during a press conference held at the college’s main gate at 11 PM. Earlier in the evening, students staged a two-hour blockade on the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway before returning to campus at around 8 PM, where they carried out a protest march.

Tensions escalated around 6 PM when students launched the ‘Barasat Barricade to North City’ program following a statement from the Education Advisor, who said, "There is no opportunity to give any special privileges to Titumir College."

Protesting students have made it clear that from Monday onwards, all classes, exams, and administrative activities at Titumir College will remain suspended. They have also warned that no one will be allowed to enter the campus until their demands are met. However, they have assured that the ongoing Saraswati Puja celebrations at the college will not be disrupted.

Three-Point Demand of the Protesters:

1. University Status for Titumir College – Titumir College must be declared a university, and an academic calendar must be published accordingly.

2. Withdrawal of Education Advisor’s Statement – The statement rejecting Titumir College's special recognition should be withdrawn. Additionally, all higher education institutions in Bangladesh, including Titumir University, should be institutionally recognized to ensure international-quality education.

3. Investigation Against Legal Advisor – A proper investigation should be conducted regarding alleged interference by the legal advisor in the formation of the Titumir University Commission. The advisor must take responsibility for disrupting state affairs and issue a public apology.

The situation remains tense as students stand firm in their demands, and further developments are expected in the coming days.