Barishal University students declare academic shutdown demanding VC’s removal

Students at Barishal University on Monday declared an academic shutdown, demanding the removal of Vice-Chancellor Shuchita Sharmin, reports UNB.

The announcement came on Sunday night during a torch procession on the campus and surrounding areas, marking the 26th day of the ongoing protest.

The students declared that academic activities will remain suspended until the VC is removed from office.

Sujoy Shuvo, a student of the university, said letters were sent to all departments requesting cooperation from teachers who have expressed solidarity with the movement.

He added that while regular classes and administrative activities would be suspended, pre-scheduled semester examinations and emergency services would continue during the shutdown.

Unmesh Roy, head of the Bangla Department, confirmed receiving the students' letter. "We have already expressed our solidarity with the movement. We fully support the students."

The protesting students alleged that the VC could not undertake any development initiatives during her tenure but filed cases against students and facilitated the return of the banned Chhatra League on the campus.

They also blamed her negligence for the death of a female student who died without receiving proper medical care.

A large number of students participated in Sunday night's torch procession, chanting anti-VC slogans and vowing to bar Sharmin from entering the campus.