On Sunday morning at 11:00 AM, Dhaka University’s teachers and students gathered in front of the iconic "Aparajeyo Bangla" statue to protest against violence against women.
The event saw an overwhelming response, with numerous students participating in marches and forming human chains across the campus. Protesters were heard chanting slogans, denouncing rape and sexual harassment.
The protest was widely covered by The Daily Star.
The rally, organized by the University Teacher Network, was led by Dr. Samina Lutfah, a professor from the Department of Sociology at Dhaka University.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Lutfah made several key demands regarding the recent harassment incident involving a female student at the university.
"We are demanding accountability for the authorities who failed to act in the case of harassment of a female student at Dhaka University," Dr. Lutfah said.
She further emphasized the need to identify and punish those responsible for additional harassment, including cyberbullying and threats of rape and murder faced by the student.
"These individuals must be brought to justice," she stated firmly.
Dr. Lutfah continued, "Additionally, we call for a thorough investigation into those who have created an atmosphere where the dishonor of women is celebrated as bravery. It is essential to take action against such harmful mindsets."
The professor also called on the university administration to take stronger measures.
"We demand that Dhaka University authorities conduct a fair and thorough investigation into the sexual harassment and immoral actions of the accused person, and take the necessary steps to have them removed from the institution."
Reflecting on past instances of student protests, Dr. Lutfah pointed out the university`s reluctance to act when it comes to student safety.
"In the past, when students raised concerns about their safety, the administration responded by trying to block off the campus, only to reverse their actions after facing public backlash. Today, when a student is harassed by a university employee, it is unclear why the administration is hesitant to take immediate action," she remarked.
She concluded with a call for transparency and swift action from the university: "It is puzzling that a matter, which could have been handled within the university itself, was instead sent to Shahbagh Police Station, putting students` lives in danger by involving external authorities."
The protest serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address violence against women within academic spaces and the responsibility of institutions to ensure the safety and well-being of their students.
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