The Jahangirnagar University Teachers’ Network has called for justice for former student Shamim Molla, who was beaten to death on campus in September 2024.
The teachers criticised the administration for its silence on the matter, stating, ‘Shamim’s political identity does not justify his murder, and the administration’s inaction indirectly validates this crime,’ said a press release on Friday.
They accused the proctorial team of negligence during the incident and demanded the inclusion of former Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal leader Abu Saeed Bhuiyan as an accused.
The teachers also called for the cancellation of academic certificates of all those involved in the killing.
Raising concerns about political activities on campus, the teachers warned against clandestine operations by groups such as Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir, which they alleged could compromise transparency in the forthcoming JUCSU elections.
They also criticised the inclusion of former students in the newly formed JU Chhatra Dal committee, calling it a breach of the university’s residential culture.
The press release highlighted a rise in harassment against female students, citing a recent incident where an outsider attempted to record videos in a restroom.
The teachers urged the administration to prioritise women’s safety and address inappropriate behaviour in classrooms.
They also condemned restrictions on student activities during New Year celebrations, accusing the administration of infringing on personal freedoms.
Additionally, the Proctorial Team faced criticism for publicly shaming students accused of alcohol consumption without proper investigation, which the teachers described as ‘moral policing’.
Among the signatories of the press release were professor Swadhin Sen of archaeology, professor Mirza Taslima Sultana of anthropology, professor Anwarullah Bhuiyan, and professor Raihan Rhyne of philosophy, among others.
On July 15, 2024, Shamim Molla, a former Chhatra League leader, was allegedly lynched by students for his involvement in attacks on anti-quota protesters.
Police have arrested two suspects among the eight accused in the case.
