Controversy Erupts at CU Over Chatra Dal Leader’s Threat of Mob Violence
A provocative statement by Mustafizur Rahman Shuvo, a former student of Comilla University (2008-09 academic year) and member secretary of the university’s Chatra Dal unit, has sparked widespread controversy. In a Facebook post late on Tuesday (September 3), Shuvo warned that the university administration would bear full responsibility for any future mob violence or untoward incidents on campus, accusing it of bias and inaction.
In his post, Shuvo criticized the administration, stating, “We strongly condemn and protest the farce and biased decisions of the university administration. Going forward, the administration will be solely responsible for any mob or undesirable incidents on campus.” He further alleged that the administration’s decisions, influenced by “Awami League allies” and Vice-Chancellor Moain, demonstrate a lack of commitment to fostering a healthy campus environment, thereby encouraging covert political activities.
Comilla University, where student politics has been banned since its inception, reiterated this prohibition in its first syndicate meeting to maintain campus discipline and a conducive academic environment. Following the fall of the Awami League government, the administration, responding to student demands, reaffirmed the ban on all political activities. However, on September 2, the university’s 100th syndicate meeting’s decision was defied when Chatra Dal held a protest march under its banner, prompting criticism on social media. In response, the administration swiftly convened a meeting on Wednesday, issuing a strict directive against political activities on campus and warning of disciplinary action under university regulations for violations.
Shuvo’s remarks have drawn sharp reactions from students. Sowaib Hossain Alamin, a student of the Mass Communication and Journalism Department, expressed dismay, stating, “Since student politics is banned at Comilla University, any program under a political banner should face consequences, and I commend the administration’s stance. How can Shuvo, a former student, threaten the administration with mob violence? Such provocative statements could disrupt campus harmony. As a general student, I urge him to retract his remarks, which reflect a lack of prudence. His words are unacceptable, especially as he is no longer affiliated with the university.”
Saiful Islam Sohan, a student injured during the July uprising, added, “The recent stance against factional student politics at Comilla University is commendable and will foster a healthy, study-friendly environment. Unfortunately, some individuals are spreading provocative and misleading statements on social media. Shuvo’s post incites students and unfairly blames the administration for potential unrest. Such irresponsible remarks fuel anarchy and undermine the administration’s efforts. A politics-free campus will enhance focus on studies, boost research, and nurture a competent generation to lead the nation.”
When contacted by The Daily Campus, Shuvo defended his stance, saying, “If we do something, everyone will notice because Chatra Dal’s actions are transparent.” When pressed on who might instigate a mob, he retorted to a reporter, “You could start a mob.”
Proctor Professor Dr. Abdul Hakim addressed the issue, stating, “We banned politics on campus in response to students’ demands. The person making these claims is a former meritorious student. If such incidents occur, we will take appropriate action.” Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Masuda Kamal, when asked about the administration’s response to the Facebook post, said, “We won’t react to social media posts. If something happens, we’ll address it then.”
Efforts to reach Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Haider Ali for comment were unsuccessful.
The controversy has raised concerns about maintaining peace on a campus striving to remain apolitical, with students and faculty urging all parties to prioritize dialogue over provocation to ensure a stable academic environment.
