Dhaka University’s Chief Returning Officer, Professor Mohammad Jasim Uddin, has clarified the stance on army deployment for the upcoming Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) and hall union elections.
He said that while the deployment of the army remains an option if necessary, there is currently no security concern that warrants such a measure.
Speaking to reporters in front of the Returning Office at Nawab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban around 3:30 pm on Thursday, Professor Jasim said, “If needed, we will seek the army’s cooperation through the university administration. However, at this moment, there is no reason for concern over security.”
Earlier in the day, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a press release stating that the Bangladesh Army had not been assigned any responsibility regarding the DUCSU and hall union elections, nor would it be engaged in such duties in the future.
Addressing the matter, Returning Officer Kazi Maruful Haque explained that calls for army deployment had arisen mainly from students’ demands for continuous safety.
He noted that one key demand—to relocate polling centers outside residential halls—has already been met.
Kazi Maruful Haque also assured that arrangements are in place to ensure all voters can cast their ballots without irregularities.
He said each voter will need about eight minutes to complete voting, and polling booths will be set up accordingly to accommodate full turnout.
Meanwhile, Professor Golam Rabbani, head of the election code of conduct task force, reported that the campus is currently free of banners and festoons, which were removed by the Proctor’s office. Candidates are allowed to distribute handbills and leaflets, and many are actively doing so.
Rabbani further said that while a violation of the code of conduct was reported at the Faculty of Fine Arts, a probe committee was formed and is expected to submit its findings within the day. No other fresh violations were reported.
He added that a candidate was previously asked to explain an incident involving music and manifesto declaration at the Teacher-Student Centre. After reviewing the response, the candidate was warned, with the reminder that repeated violations would result in punitive action.
