Gonotantrik Chatro Jote places 5-point demand over eviction of unauthorised vendors at DU

Gonotantrik Chatro Jote, an alliance of left-leaning student groups, has placed a five-point demand today (28 October) over the eviction of unauthorised mobile vendors from Dhaka University. 

Nayeem Uddin of Biplabi Chhatra Jubo Andolon, Sami Abdullah of Biplabi Chhatra Maitree, and Main Ahmed of Chhatra Union read the statement at a press conference at Madhur Canteen around 12:30pm today. 

The alliance said Dhaka city lacks enough recreational centres. Mismanagement and drug trading at Suhrawardy Udyan have made many people spend time on the university campus, causing problems for students.

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They alleged that some government officials, police, and a few DU students were protecting illegal businesses. They said the government and city corporation should create well-managed recreational centres to reduce crowding on campus.

The alliance also said the university has become unsafe due to the administration's failure. They referred to recent murders and incidents of insecurity on campus.

They added that the absence of proper management has led to too many unauthorised mobile vendors, far beyond students' needs. They demanded that only necessary shops be allowed to operate under a campus plan.

DU Chhatra Union President Meghmallar Basu was also present.

The five demands are:

1. Investigate attacks on mobile vendors and rickshaw-pullers, and harassment of student Abir Hasan; provide compensation and return seized goods.
2. Ensure alternative jobs and rehabilitation for homeless people and unauthorised vendors.
3. Investigate drug syndicates, extortion, and corruption.
4. Form a 'Safe Campus Charter'.
5. Protect students' freedom of expression and democratic rights.