Tensions erupted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University (BSMRSTU) in Gopalganj following the appointment of a new proctor, resulting in clashes between two groups of students. The altercation left at least 15 individuals, including the former proctor, teachers, and students, injured.
The incident occurred on Tuesday night (November 19) near the residence of the university’s Vice-Chancellor, after the newly appointed proctor, Dr. Arifuzzaman Rajib, an associate professor of the Electrical and Electronic Engineering Department, assumed his role earlier in the day.
According to student sources, the administration replaced the former proctor, Dr. Md. Kamruzzaman, with Dr. Arifuzzaman Rajib. Protesting the appointment, a group of students labeled Dr. Rajib as a leader of Bangabandhu Parishad and demanded his removal, staging a demonstration on campus.
As the protest reached the Vice-Chancellor’s residence, it was met with resistance from another group of students. This led to a series of chases, counter-chases, and scuffles. When teachers attempted to intervene, some were attacked by agitated students. Among the injured was former proctor Dr. Md. Kamruzzaman, who stated, “This is a matter concerning the students, and I was not directly involved. However, I was slightly injured by stones while heading to the scene.”
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Hossain Uddin Shekhar explained, “The proctorial change was an administrative decision aimed at enhancing efficiency. However, it is inappropriate for students to interfere in administrative matters. Despite the incidents, the situation on campus remains under control.”
The university administration has yet to announce further actions regarding the situation.
