Dhaka, Feb 01 (V7N) – Students of Government Titumir College continue their hunger strike and blockade program, demanding that the institution be declared a full-fledged university. Despite initially announcing that they would suspend protests on Friday morning, they resumed blockades in the afternoon, culminating in a demonstration at Gulshan-1 Gol Chattar later that night.

On Saturday, the students announced a temporary halt to road blockades until 4:00 PM but warned that they would intensify their protest if their demands were not met by then. Meanwhile, another protesting student, Yusuf, fell ill due to the ongoing hunger strike and was taken to the hospital.

The students have issued a deadline of 4:00 PM today for authorities to meet their seven-point demand regarding the formation of Titumir University. They have warned that failure to do so will result in an indefinite blockade across areas under the Dhaka North City Corporation.

Seven Demands of the Students:

1. State Recognition: The government must officially declare Titumir University and publish its academic calendar.

2. University Administration & Admissions: An administration must be formed, and admission activities for the 2024-2025 session should commence.

3. Student Housing: Either ensure housing for all students or cover their housing expenses.

4. New Subjects: Introduce 'Law' and 'Journalism' from the 2024-2025 academic year.

5. Qualified Faculty: Recruit PhD-qualified teachers for academic activities.

6. Improved Education Quality: Limit student intake to improve education standards.

7. Research Facilities: Secure land and funding to establish international-standard research laboratories.

At 11:00 PM on Friday, the student organization 'Titumir Oikya' declared the 4:00 PM deadline for government action. If the demand is not met, they plan to launch a blockade program titled 'Barasat Barricade to North City,' affecting roads and railway routes under Dhaka North City Corporation.

While the blockade will be indefinite, the students have announced a temporary relaxation of protests between 6:00 AM and 11:00 AM to accommodate the World Ijtema religious gathering. However, the hunger strike will continue regardless of the blockade.

The ongoing protest has caused significant disruptions, with authorities yet to respond to the students' demands.

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