Student safety takes priority over DUCSU: Pro-VC

Dhaka University's (DU) Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Dr Sayema Haque Bidisha, announced plans to slow down Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) related activities to prioritise student safety amid current tensions.

She revealed this during special interview with Daily Observer on Monday evening, following controversy over murder of Chhatra Dal leader Shahriar Alam Shammo and ongoing debates about long-awaited DUCSU election.

"We, university administration, are deeply saddened by Shammo's murder. We are pressuring DMP (Dhaka Metropolitan Police) to arrest those responsible, and we hope results will come soon," she said. 

When asked whether Shammo's murder might derail upcoming DUCSU election, she explained, "DUCSU is certainly on our agenda. We had everything planned. Meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, day after Shammo's murder, to discuss DUCSU constitution and election commission. Unfortunately, that meeting had to be cancelled."

She clarified, "We had plan and were progressing accordingly, but now work is slightly delayed. Forming election commission is not as easy as it appears. Commissioner must be experienced and acceptable to all political groups. We can't just appoint a lecturer."

Reports indicate some potential candidates for role of election commissioner are currently abroad.

Dr Bidisha explained that three key committees had been formed to facilitate Daksu election: Six-member advisory committee led by Pro-VC (Administration),  Seven-member code of conduct drafting/revision committee headed by Pro-VC (Academic) anr Constitution amendment committee led by Dean of Faculty of Law

"We had completed first phase of committees' work and were about to move to second phase when this unfortunate incident occurred," she said. "So, our focus has now shifted to ensuring student safety. We are taking immediate steps accordingly. Our current priority is justice for Shammo and safeguarding all students".

Tragic murder of DU student Shammo has forced administration to temporarily shelve plans for long-awaited DUCSU election. 

Despite extensive preparations including formation of three specialised committees, university officials have shifted focus to enhancing campus security. 

DU Pro-VC's (administration) statements highlight balanced approach between institutional governance and student welfare during crisis period. 

While DUCSU remains on agenda, immediate safety concerns and justice for slain student have taken precedence, demonstrating administration's commitment to prioritise student wellbeing over political processes during challenging times.

NSA