Harassment Alleged Against Shibir VP Candidate’s Wife

In a tense incident during the ongoing Jagannath University Central Students' Union (JnUCSU) election, the wife of Islami Chhatra Shibir-backed VP candidate Riazul Islam was allegedly harassed and later handed over to police by Chhatra Dal activists. She was eventually released by the police.

The incident occurred this morning, Tuesday (6 January), around 10:30 am in front of the university’s main gate. The victim, Mahima Akter, is a student of the 2018-19 session in the Law Department at Jagannath University.

According to reports, Mahima Akter was positioned outside the campus. At the time, she was wearing hijab and niqab. Chhatra Dal branch leaders and activists approached her, demanding she reveal her identity by removing her niqab and mask.

Among those present were Central Chhatra Dal Vice-President Kazi Ziauddin Basit, former branch president Asaduzzaman Aslam, current member secretary Shamsul Arefin, branch secretary, and other leaders and activists. They reportedly blocked a police covered van and stood in front.

Victim’s Account

Mahima Akter said: “I was standing outside the university. Then Chhatra Dal brothers came and harassed me. One of my relatives was also with me. We were outside the gate. Since I was wearing hijab, they asked me to remove my hijab and mask.”

Shibir VP Candidate’s Response

Riazul Islam, president of the DU branch of Islami Chhatra Shibir and VP candidate of the ‘Adomya Jabyan Aikya’ panel, said: “She is my wife and a student of the 14th batch in the Law Department of this university. She was working outside for our panel. Since morning, Chhatra Dal has been pushing and creating chaos at the gate. Later, with police help, the situation normalised.”

He added: “When she was standing outside the campus, Chhatra Dal leaders and activists created a mob. Such behaviour is never acceptable.”

Proctor’s Statement

University Proctor Professor Dr Muhammad Tajammul Haque said: “The matter came to our notice, and it has been resolved.”