Barisal univ students burn registrar's effigy, demand his removal

Students of the Barisal University have burned an effigy of Registrar Monirul Islam during a protest programme today, pressing forth their four-point demand, which includes his removal from post.

They reportedly locked the registrar's office in his absence, after their demonstration on the ground floor in front of the university's administrative building, as well as other rooms under Monirul's supervision and forced the staff out.

Protesting students claimed Monirul Islam is unlawfully occupying the position of registrar and that he is a former vice-president of the Awami League's Monpura Upazila unit in Bhola. 

According to them, he was dismissed in 2018 but was reinstated during the Awami League government and continues to hold the position. 

The students alleged that the current vice-chancellor is empowering pro-Awami League individuals by placing them in lucrative positions, including Monirul.

"We want Monirul Islam removed today and a new person appointed," one of the protesters said.

Protesting student Rakin Khan said, "We have taken to the streets with four demands." 

Besides Monirul Islam's immediate dismissal, the other demands include reinstatement of Professor Md Mohsin, action against Awami League affiliates, and apology from the vice-chancellor for favouring them. 

"If our demands are not met soon, we will launch a tougher movement. Through this protest, we aim to rid the university of fascist collaborators."

Registrar Monirul Islam and Vice-Chancellor Professor Shuchita Sharmin could not be reached for comments on the matter.