Dhaka, Sept 1 (V7N) — Bangladesh Islami Chatra Shibir staged a protest rally in Dhaka on Sunday, condemning what it described as increasing political interference in student affairs and administrative failure to ensure safety on university campuses. The demonstration specifically addressed recent violent incidents at Chittagong University and alleged attempts to obstruct the long-anticipated Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RAKSU) election.

Organized by the Dhaka Metropolitan East chapter of Chatra Shibir, the protest began in Katabon and concluded in Shahbagh. Following the rally, a public gathering was held where senior leaders delivered speeches sharply critical of the interim government's performance.

Central Office Secretary of Chatra Shibir, Sibghatullah, speaking at the event, said the student community remains vigilant and united against any "conspiracies aimed at destabilizing the country." He claimed that a “deep crisis” is being manufactured and alleged that some elements within the state structure were complicit.

Citing the violence at Chittagong University, where scores of students were reportedly injured during campus clashes, Sibghatullah said the events were “a glaring example of administrative negligence.” He added, “Bangladesh, earned at the cost of countless sacrifices, was meant to be a safe and sovereign nation. The current interim administration has failed to uphold that vision.”

The Chatra Shibir leader also voiced concerns over the upcoming RAKSU elections, stating that while campaigns for student body polls at other major institutions like Dhaka University (DUCSU) and Jahangirnagar University (JAKSU) are proceeding in a festive manner, attempts are being made to obstruct the democratic process at Rajshahi University.

“We see this as part of a broader effort to marginalize certain student voices,” he said. “We condemn these actions and call for immediate measures to ensure a fair election.”

In a pointed political remark, Sibghatullah questioned the perceived double standards in how political gatherings are treated. “Even banned parties such as the Awami League are allowed to rally in the capital without resistance. What message does this send? Is the state incapable of resisting authoritarianism?” he asked.

He warned that if injustices continue, the student movement would escalate. “Students are not asleep. If needed, we will return to the streets to defend the nation, Insha’Allah.”

The gathering was presided over by Dhaka Metropolitan East President Asif Abdullah and conducted by Helal Uddin, President of the South chapter. Also speaking at the rally were Chatra Shibir’s Central Publicity Secretary Azizur Rahman Azad, Student Welfare Secretary Hafiz Dr. Rezwanul Haque, and Cultural Secretary Hafiz Abu Musa. Leaders from various levels of the organization across the capital were present.

This protest marks a continuation of growing unrest within student political circles over alleged political bias, delayed electoral processes, and rising concerns about safety and free expression on university campuses, particularly outside Dhaka.

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