A shocking incident has come to light at the University of Chittagong (CU) is Freedom Fighter quota scam, where a student allegedly manipulated family identity to gain admission under the Freedom Fighter quota.
Mahmudul Hasan Chowdhury Shimul, currently enrolled in the Law Department (academic year 2020–21), falsely listed his uncle as his father and his aunt as his mother to secure a seat through the Freedom Fighter Quota (FFQ1). Despite this revelation, he continues to attend classes and previously lived illegally in a residential hall.
Multiple sources confirmed that in his NID (National ID) and academic documents, Shimul used the names of his paternal uncle, Mofizul Islam Chowdhury a recognized freedom fighter—and his wife Shamsunnahar Chowdhury, instead of his actual parents, including his father Emdadul Islam Chowdhury.
Using this falsified identity, Shimul ranked 38th in the merit list under the Freedom Fighter quota and was admitted into the Law Department. Shockingly, under the general merit list, his position was a distant 4653rd making it highly unlikely he would’ve been admitted without the quota advantage.
According to official records from the National Freedom Fighters’ Council (JAMUKA) and the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, Mofizul Islam Chowdhury from Muriyaouk village in Lakhai upazila, Habiganj district, is indeed a recognized freedom fighter (Civil Gazette No. 1065). However, he is not Shimul’s father—he is his uncle.
Further digging reveals that Mofizul Islam has passed away, and his government pension is currently being received by his wife, Shamsunnahar. The official website of the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs lists no record of Shimul as an heir, casting doubt on any legitimate claim to the quota.
Beyond the admission irregularities, Shimul was also found to be illegally staying in Shah Amanat Hall at the university, reportedly occupying another student’s seat. A classmate, who requested anonymity, said, “He was in class today too. He not only attends classes regularly but also lived in the hall using someone else’s seat.”
A roommate confirmed that Shimul had stayed in the hall for some time, but left recently after the rightful resident returned. Dr. Rokiba Nabi, Head of the Law Department, commented:
“After the university reopened, I collected all his documents and presented them before the academic committee. The committee discussed the matter, but it has no authority to expel students. If the University Disciplinary Committee takes a decision, we will act accordingly.”
Dr. Rokiba Nabi, Head of the Law Department, commented:
“After the university reopened, I collected all his documents and presented them before the academic committee. The committee discussed the matter, but it has no authority to expel students. If the University Disciplinary Committee takes a decision, we will act accordingly.”
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Professor Dr. Md. Kamal Uddin, Pro-Vice Chancellor of CU, said:
“The matter has reached the disciplinary committee. Usually, we don’t convene a meeting for a single agenda. However, I will speak with the Proctor and form an investigation committee to take action according to university rules.”
This case is more than just a personal misconduct—it questions the integrity of the university admission process and the misuse of the Freedom Fighter quota system, which was designed to support the legitimate descendants of national heroes.
The Freedom Fighter quota exists to ensure historical justice and socio-economic support. When exploited, it denies rightful candidates their opportunities and tarnishes the memory of the Liberation War.
While a preliminary discussion has taken place, the university’s disciplinary committee must now take swift and transparent action. This is not only about Shimul but about setting a precedent that such manipulation will not be tolerated.
At the heart of this controversy lies a deep violation—not just of rules, but of national trust. Turning an uncle into a father to grab a quota meant for true heirs of Bangladesh’s liberation is both unethical and illegal.
As one of Bangladesh’s premier institutions, the University of Chittagong must act decisively. The Freedom Fighter quota is a sacred recognition of our history not a loophole for the ambitious. Any attempt to twist that history for personal gain must be addressed firmly, so the future remains just and true.
