Jucsu polls: Teachers' network rejects results, demands probe into irregularities
The statement highlighted a lack of transparency, insufficient personnel, and a series of biased decisions
The University Teachers' Network, a platform for private and public university teachers, has demanded an impartial investigation into the recently held Jahangirnagar University Central Students' Union (Jucsu) election, citing widespread allegations of irregularities, mismanagement, and bias.
In a detailed media statement issued today (15 September), the platform stated that while the election — the first in 33 years — had generated significant student interest, the process itself was flawed and controversial from the very beginning.
The statement highlighted a lack of transparency, insufficient personnel, and a series of biased decisions.
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The network also expressed deep sorrow over the death of young teacher Jannatul Ferdous, whom they claim died due to the Jucsu Election Commission's incompetence, poor planning, and inexperience.
University Teachers' Network condemned the JU administration for its failure in this regard.
The statement listed a series of serious irregularities, including a flawed voter list and ballot papers, the cancellation of VP candidate Amartya Roy's candidacy, the late-night dispatch of ballot boxes to the student halls, complications in appointing polling agents, disenfranchisement of valid students, voter fraud, an excess supply of ballots, and the use of non-indelible ink.
Additionally, it noted irregularities and a slow pace in vote counting, with candidates and journalists being obstructed from entering the polling centres.
The network also criticised the alleged continuation of voting after the official deadline.
The statement further pointed out that five of the eight participating panels boycotted the election on the day of voting. At the same time, three teachers on electoral duty resigned, and two election commissioners stepped down, citing bias.
Despite these, the final results were announced with the signatures of only three commissioners, further fuelling controversy.
University Teachers' Network also called the administration's decision to count votes manually instead of using OMR machines, a failure.
They condemned the failure to utilise technology despite the huge expense, which not only delayed the results but also raised numerous questions.
The statement further added that the entire process demonstrated a clear intent to ensure the victory of a specific faction, which has eroded the trust of students, candidates, teachers, and the wider university community.
The University Teacher Network rejected the election results and called for a fair, neutral, and transparent investigation to expose the irregularities and manipulation, holding the university administration accountable.
