DU Syndicate to Decide Today on Ban of Pro-AL Teachers' Group 'Blue Panel'

Speculation is growing at Dhaka University (DU) over a potential ban on the pro-Awami League teachers' group, the Blue Panel, as the university's highest decision-making body, the Syndicate, convenes for a crucial meeting on Tuesday (July 28) at 5:30 PM.

The prospective measure comes amid grave allegations against the panel for engaging in anti-student activities during the former Awami League administration and the July 2024 mass uprising.

On Monday afternoon, over a hundred faculty members under the banner of "Anti-Fascist Teachers"—comprising pro-BNP and pro-Jamaat academics—submitted a memorandum to the Vice-Chancellor. The group demanded an immediate ban on the Blue Panel's political activities and submitted a list of 125 controversial teachers, calling for formal administrative action against them for their role during the movement.

The memorandum highlighted several key allegations regarding the Blue Panel's stance during the July 2024 movement. Following the martyrdom of student Abu Sayed and others, the Blue Panel held a press conference on August 1 labeling protesting students as "tools of anti-state conspirators" and backing student repression.

On July 30, panel members threatened legal action on treason charges against teachers from the pro-BNP White Panel when the latter demanded the government's resignation over the killings. Additionally, on August 3, the Blue Panel organized a rally seeking trials for "killings and sabotage," effectively holding student protesters responsible for the violence rather than addressing state atrocities.

Speaking to The Daily Campus on Tuesday afternoon, DU Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Abdus Salam confirmed receiving the demand from the White Panel, stating that detailed discussions will take place and a decision will be made regarding the issue during today's Syndicate meeting.

University sources indicate that the submission of the memorandum ahead of the Syndicate meeting carries significant weight, with expectations high among campus stakeholders for administrative measures against the group.