Professor Dr. Rais Uddin, the General Secretary of the Jagannath University Teachers’ Association, has officially declared a shutdown of Jagannath University. This decision came on Thursday, May 15, after a discussion with protesting students at their sit-in protest in Kakrail, Dhaka.
He stated clearly,
“We are here for the rights of Jagannath University. The police attacked us without reason. This is total injustice and chaos.”
Teachers Stand with Students
Dr. Rais Uddin emphasized that the protest is not against any individual or authority.
“We have not come to speak against anyone or plan any conspiracy. We are here only to demand our rightful claims.”
He declared that no academic or examination activities will take place at Jagannath University until all demands are fulfilled.
“We will not return home without achieving our demands.”
He also warned against any forceful action to remove the protesters:
“No one should even think of harming my students in front of my eyes.”
Students Camped Out on Streets for Over 24 Hours
Hundreds of Jagannath University students have been camping in Kakrail for nearly 24 hours, showing no signs of giving up. Many students are exhausted, with some even spending the night sleeping on the streets, but they continue their protest with determination.
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Students’ Four Key Demands
The students have placed four major demands:
- Housing Allowance: From the 2025–26 financial year, introduce housing scholarships for 70% of students.
- Full Budget Approval: Approve the university’s proposed full budget without any cuts.
- Second Campus Implementation: Approve and begin the second campus project in the upcoming ECNEC (Executive Committee of the National Economic Council) meeting.
- Justice for Police Attack: Conduct a fair investigation into the May 14 police attack on students and ensure punishment for those responsible.
Police Clash During Peaceful March
On Wednesday morning (May 14), around 11 AM, teachers and students began a long march towards the Chief Advisor’s residence with their demands. The march passed through Gulistan and Matsya Bhaban and reached Kakrail Mosque.
Police used sound grenades and tear gas on the demonstrators at approximately 12:40 PM. They dispersed the gathering using hot water cannons as well. More than 100 persons, including students, professors, and journalists, were hurt when the police charged at the dispersed students with batons.
Anger Is Raised by the Advisor’s Statement
Later that evening, Mahfuz, a university counsellor, arrived to conduct a press conference. Students, on the other hand, were disappointed by his remarks. The phrases “Fake, fake” were yelled at him.
As tensions grew, someone from the crowd threw a bottle at the advisor. Mahfuz then left the scene angrily, ending the briefing without addressing the protesters’ concerns.
Conclusion
The situation at Jagannath University remains tense. With both teachers and students united, and academic activities halted, all eyes are now on the authorities. Whether the demands will be met—and how soon—remains to be seen.
Source: Dhaka Tribune
