Umama Fatima Issues Apology for Breaching Hall Rules at Dhaka University

Umama Fatema, a vice-president (VP) candidate in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election, has expressed regret following allegations of violating the code of conduct by staying at Rokeya Hall past permitted hours on Sunday night (24 August). The incident sparked widespread discussion and criticism among students.

In response to the controversy, Umama clarified her actions in a Facebook post on Monday (25 August), stating that she had met with the Rokeya Hall Provost and submitted a formal apology. “As I entered the hall in violation of the rules, I have sought forgiveness from the hall administration,” she said.

In her Facebook post, Umama explained, “The narrative surrounding my entry into Rokeya Hall has been misconstrued by various quarters. I did not visit the hall for election campaigning or meetings. Due to prolonged mental stress, I went to meet a friend for some relief. I entered the hall before the gate closed at 10 PM, so the claim that I arrived at 1:30 AM is entirely false and motivated. No one can prove that I asked for votes.”

She further alleged that as an independent candidate, she is being unfairly targeted. “Those who did not want me to contest this election are deliberately harassing me, portraying me as a culprit on social media. These actions are motivated to undermine the election process. To address the situation, I personally met the Rokeya Hall Provost, discussed the matter, and submitted an application, a copy of which is attached. I have apologized to the hall administration for entering in violation of the rules,” she added.

Umama emphasized that visiting another hall is not a criminal offense, despite being against regulations. “From today’s experience, I can say that students from one hall visiting another is a common practice, though not officially permitted. Criminalizing such actions on social media restricts women’s freedom of movement. Ordinary female students face such harassment regularly. After the 2019 DUCSU election, these restrictions were introduced, but post-election, the old practices resumed. If elected, I will work to ensure female students can move freely between halls without hindrance,” she stated.

The incident has fueled debates about the enforcement of hall regulations and the challenges faced by candidates, particularly women, during the DUCSU election campaign.