Ducsu polls: No comment from VC on hunger strike

Dhaka University Vice Chancellor Prof Md Akhteruzzaman today refused to comment about the students who were observing hunger strike for fresh elections to Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (Ducsu).

The VC was leaving his office today after meeting the Ducsu VP-elect Nurul Haque Nur when journalists surrounded him and asked his opinion on the students on hunger strike.

Even after repeated questions on whether he will meet the students, one of whom has already been hospitalised after falling ill, the VC refused to say anything clearly.

At one point the VC said: “I hope all students on their own accord will take it up to themselves to ensure a safe and normal environment in the university.”

He also said that none of the 450 or so teachers and university authorities on watch during the Ducsu election complained about students being unable to cast votes or irregularities.

The VC also said “it is hurtful for all the authorities” who worked relentlessly on election day to see that a vested quarter is trying to create confusion over the matter.

In the end, he maintained that Ducsu election took place in a fair and festive manner.

PROF AKHTERUZZAMAN AND DUCSU

Dhaka University’s vice chancellor has shown a complete disregard to demands of a fresh election to Ducsu, maintaining that the election was held properly.

Even yesterday, when protesting students handed a three-day ultimatum to the VC, he refused to accept their demand maintaining his position that the election was fair.

His note is similar to that of Bangladesh Chhatra League, the ruling party’s student front.

Prof Akhteruzzaman made similar comments on Ducsu election day, the day that unveiled proof of irregularities and saw one hall provost being relieved due to evidence of rigging.

WHAT HAPPENED AT THE DUCSU POLLS?

The 28-year-long wait for the Ducsu election ended on March 11 in boycott by all major panels except for the BCL over allegations of irregularities and vote rigging.

Most participating panels exploded in protests even before the voting ended and demanded a reelection. They had also called a strike, which was later called off.

The university authorities found proof of vote rigging in Bangladesh-Kuwait Maitree Hall, where several hundred ballot papers were found in a sack. All the ballot papers were marked in favour of the BCL candidates, teachers and students said.

The hall provost was removed from duty following the discovery.