Chatra Dal VP Candidate Faces Allegations of Breaching DUCSU Election Code

The Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election has been marred by fresh allegations of code of conduct violations against candidates from the Chatra Dal-backed panel. Reports indicate that Abidul Islam Khan, the panel’s vice-president (VP) candidate, was spotted campaigning inside a reading room at Amar Ekushey Hall, accompanied by Md Mehedi Hasan, the nominee for international affairs editor.

Under DUCSU’s election code of conduct, campaigning in reading rooms is strictly prohibited to ensure uninterrupted academic activities. On Sunday (24 August), Bin Yamina Molla, VP candidate from the DUCSU for Change panel supported by the Students’ Rights Council, and SM Forhad, GS candidate from the United Students’ Alliance backed by Chatra Shibir, raised their concerns with the media.

Bin Yamina Molla criticized the Chatra Dal-backed panel, stating, “Their candidates enter reading rooms, yet it’s not considered a violation. They hold processions with slogans and display party banners at TSC, but that’s deemed acceptable. If I put up similar banners, it’s labeled a breach of the code. Why the double standards?”

SM Farhad echoed similar sentiments, noting, “Despite our repeated concerns, the election commission has taken no action. Students have reported disruptions to their studies due to candidates campaigning in reading rooms. We urge the commission to enforce the rules and address any violations promptly.”

A video obtained by this correspondent shows Abidul Islam Khan entering the reading room at Amar Ekushey Hall, engaging with students by shaking hands, introducing himself, and seeking their support. He was also seen embracing some students, with Md Mehedi Hasan by his side.

According to Section 6(c) of the DUCSU Election-2025 Code of Conduct, campaigning or holding assemblies in areas like reading rooms, classrooms, or examination halls that could disrupt academic activities is prohibited. Processions inside classrooms or corridors are also banned. This incident constitutes a clear violation by the Chatra Dal VP candidate.

Section 17 of the code further stipulates that violations may lead to penalties, including a fine of up to Tk 20,000, cancellation of candidature, expulsion from the university, or other legal consequences as per university or national laws.

Professor Dr Golam Rabbani, Returning Officer for the DUCSU election, stated, “We will investigate any written complaints received and take appropriate action based on our findings.”

Later that day, Chief Returning Officer Professor Dr Jashim Uddin confirmed in a briefing, “A complaint regarding the incident at Amar Ekushey Hall has been lodged. The election commission will review it and make a decision.”

This is not the first such allegation. On Saturday (23 August), Abu Bakar Majumdar, general secretary candidate from Democratic Students Union Panel, accused Sheikh Tanvir Bari Hamim, the Chatra Dal-nominated GS candidate, of repeatedly violating the election code during campaign activities, with no action taken by the administration.