Students continue DUET blockade demanding cancellation of VC appointment

The ongoing protest at Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology over the appointment of a Vice-Chancellor (VC) entered its fifth day on Monday, as students continued a campus blockade following clashes with police and outsiders on May 17.

Students alleged that protesting general students were attacked during the violence on Saturday. Despite tensions on campus, they announced that the movement would continue until their demands are met.

The protesters placed three demands:

1. Immediate cancellation of the appointment of the current VC, alleging responsibility for violence against students.
2. Appointment of a qualified and acceptable VC from among DUET teachers.
3. An impartial investigation into the attack on students and permanent expulsion of those involved.

As part of the “DUET Blockade” programme, students began sit-ins and protest marches on campus from 8:00am on Monday. The peaceful demonstration was continuing at the time of reporting around 11:50am.

Students said the movement would continue until authorities accept their demands.

Additional law enforcement personnel were seen on campus, though the situation remained under control.

Officer-in-Charge of Gazipur Sadar Police Station Mohammad Aminul Islam said students had been holding a sit-in since Monday morning and police were deployed at key points on campus.

Meanwhile, DUET Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohammad Iqbal said he was staying outside the campus in Gazipur and maintaining communication with colleagues online.