Shibir-Backed Student Alliance Seeks Security and CCTV Overhaul Ahead of CUCSU Polls

The Sampritir Chhatro Jote panel, backed by Islami Chhatra Shibir, held a press conference demanding the repair and replacement of inactive CCTV cameras and several other measures ahead of the Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (CUCSU) election.

The press conference took place on Saturday, October 11, at Jarultola on the university campus. At the outset, the panel paid tribute to the martyrs of all mass uprisings from 1947 to 2024.

CUCSU vice president (VP) candidate Ibrahim Hossain (Rony) stated, “The CUCSU election is very close, and the overall process is progressing well. However, we have some complaints and concerns regarding certain ambiguities in the commission’s activities.”

He added, “Before the election, the commission announced that it would restrict the entry of outsiders to ensure a fair and desired environment and strengthen security measures. But we are still noticing the infiltration of outsiders on campus. We would like to know from the administration when a proper security perimeter will be implemented.”

Rony further said, “After the DUCSU election, the election or nomination process for sending student representatives to the senate was completed, and at Rajshahi University, the RAKSU election and the senate member election were held simultaneously. But at CUCSU, elections are being conducted only for the central and hall councils — there is no process for participation in the senate. We would like to know the administration’s position on the senate election.”

He continued, “The Election Commission had asked for polling agent details from our candidates, which we provided. But with only a few days left before the election, the administration has not yet informed us who have been selected as polling agents. As a result, we still do not know who will be allowed to serve as polling agents. We urge the administration to publish the list promptly, as those assigned need time to prepare.”

Rony emphasized, “One of our major demands was to ensure the security of polling centers by bringing them under CCTV surveillance. Unfortunately, most of the cameras on campus are currently inactive. We urge the administration to repair or replace them immediately. To ensure a fair election, indelible ink should also be provided for voters.”

He added, “Another key demand is to ensure uninterrupted electricity and internet service from voting to result announcement. Additionally, the shuttle train schedule should be expanded and bus services should be introduced for non-residential students, with routes announced as soon as possible. This will greatly ease the suffering of our fellow students.”