RU teachers, staff observe work stoppage over 'assault' by students
While a few officials and employees remain in the administration and academic buildings, most departments have suspended classes and examinations
Teachers, officials, and employees of Rajshahi University (RU) are observing a day-long work stoppage today (21 September), demanding punishment for those accused of assaulting the pro-vice chancellor and several teachers.
At around 9:30am, they gathered at Shaheed Buddhijibi Square on campus to press their demand.
While a few officials and employees remain in the administration and academic buildings, most departments have suspended classes and examinations.
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Muktar Hossain, president of the RU Officers' Association, said, "Some individuals disguised as students had assaulted the pro-vice chancellor and other teachers on Saturday. Unless legal action is taken against those involved by today, a more stringent protest will be announced."
On the issue of the dependent quota, he said it was an institutional benefit available in all universities and government jobs across the country, and questioned why Rajshahi University teachers, officials, and employees should be deprived of it.
Amid student protests, the university administration suspended the opportunity for admission under the dependent quota last night (20 September).
Vice Chancellor Professor Saleh Hasan Naqib said an emergency syndicate meeting had been called for 3pm today to discuss the overall situation.
Students have demanded the abolition of the dependent quota, warning of further protests if it is retained.
Hasan Hawladar, one of the protesting students, said, "The main spirit of our July uprising is the elimination of all types of quota systems. If this quota system is maintained in any institution after July, it is against the spirit of July. We want the abolition of the quota system in all universities, including Rajshahi, and all government institutions."
He added that the constitution only allows quotas for marginalised groups, such as people with disabilities, and questioned why teachers and officials should benefit from them.
Another student argued that securing admission at the university requires students to face tough competition, whereas those applying under quotas can gain admission with only passing marks, which they described as discriminatory.
The confrontation between students and teachers, officials, and employees over the reinstatement of the dependent quota took place on yesterday afternoon.
Following the incident, students staged protests until midnight, demanding its abolition.
