Prof AAMS Arefin Siddique, former vice chancellor of Dhaka University, was laid to eternal rest at the Azimpur graveyard in the capital yesterday afternoon.

He was buried next to his parents' graves following a namaz-e-janaza at Dhanmondi Eidgah Mosque after Juma prayers.

The janaza was attended by his family members, DU teachers, his students, and a large number of admirers and well-wishers.

Earlier, his first namaz-e-janaza was held in front of Baitul Aksa Jame Mosque, near his residence on Green Road in the capital. DU Vice-Chancellor Prof Niaz Ahmed Khan was present at the janaza.

Speaking to reporters after the janaza, Prof Niaz said the janaza was held as per the decision of the family members, in consultation with the university authorities.

He added that the university authorities showed the respect to Prof Siddique that he deserved as a former VC of Dhaka University.

Saifullah Siddique, brother of Prof Arefin Siddique, told The Daily Star that they had learned from the media on Thursday night that it would be difficult for Dhaka University authorities to provide security for the janaza on the university campus.

Therefore, to avoid any unexpected incidents, they decided not to hold the funeral prayers on campus, he added.

Prof Siddique, who served as the vice chancellor of DU for two consecutive terms, passed away at 10:45pm on Thursday at the Neuro-Intensive Care Unit of Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital. He was 72.

On March 6, Prof Siddique, also a former teacher of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism, suddenly collapsed at Dhaka Club and was hospitalised.

After initial treatment, he was moved to the ICU and placed on life support. Despite the doctors' best efforts, his condition remained unstable until his passing.