DU silent on Shamsunnahar hall torture day

Dhaka University (DU) officials have conspicuously avoided marking Wednesday’s 23rd observance of Shamsunnahar Hall Torture Day, breaking with tradition whilst student groups step forward with independent commemorative programmes. 

Public Relations Office confirmed no institutional events were scheduled for the significant date that previously forced a vice-chancellor's resignation.

On this day in 2002, police brutally assaulted female students at Shamsunnahar Hall during nightime raids under the BNP-Jamaat coalition government. 

The shocking crackdown injured numerous students and sparked massive protests that ultimately compelled then-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Anwarullah Chowdhury to step down alongside the Proctor and Hall Provost. 

University administration traditionally observed the date as a "Black Day" in subsequent years.

However, this year marks a stark departure from established practice. Neither hall authorities nor university administration have organised commemorative activities, leaving student organisations to fill the void independently. 

Bangladesh Ganotantrik Chhatra Sangsad announced a candlelight vigil at 7 PM near Raju Sculpture to observe the Day for Prevention of Torture Against Female Students, whilst Chattra Federation planned their own vigil outside Shamsunnahar Hall.

Chattra Union commemorated observance through social media, releasing video footage from the 2002 incident on their official Facebook page. 

The grassroots initiatives highlight growing concern amongst students about institutional memory and accountability regarding past injustices that shaped campus activism.

NRE/NSA