DE News Desk :
Students of Dhaka University (DU) have issued an ultimatum demanding the immediate resignation of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET) Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md Mashud.
Failing that, they have threatened to begin a blockade at Shahbagh, a central protest point in the capital.
The announcement came during a rally held Tuesday evening at the base of the Raju Memorial Sculpture, following a solidarity march that began at the DU Vice-Chancellor’s residence.
Protesting in support of the ongoing movement by KUET students, the DU demonstrators said the issue at KUET reflects a broader trend of political influence in educational institutions across the country.
“This is not an isolated incident. There is a clear attempt to turn KUET into a political battleground,” said Mosaddek, a student from the university’s Bangla department.
Another student, Mosaddek Ibne Ali Mohammad, echoed similar sentiments: “Just as the ruling party has taken control of campuses nationwide, KUET is now facing the same wave of authoritarianism. If we don’t resist now, it’ll spread across the country.”
Tensions have been rising at KUET since a violent clash on February 18 between activists of Chhatra Dal and members of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, leaving over 50 students injured.
The violence erupted over a call to ban student politics on campus. A case was filed following the incident.
On April 14, nearly two months later, KUET’s syndicate temporarily expelled 37 students in connection with the clashes, a move that triggered further unrest.
In protest, KUET students began a hunger strike on April 21, calling for the VC’s removal, accusing the administration of bias and failure to protect student interests.
Farhan Aqib, a 15th batch KUET student, voiced frustration during a brief symbolic blockade held earlier in the day at Shahbagh.
“This administration is incompetent and oppressive. If we unite on the streets, people like this VC will have no choice but to step down,” he said.
“Today’s blockade was just a warning. If our demand isn’t met, tougher action will be followed.”
Meanwhile, the Gonotantrik Chhatra Sangsad has also joined the movement, staging a symbolic hunger strike at Shahbag to express solidarity with KUET students.
As tensions escalate, all eyes are now on KUET’s leadership and whether any action will be taken in response to the mounting pressure.