United News of Bangladesh

A group of students staged a protest, including the burning of an effigy, against what they described as “defamatory” remarks and false allegations made by a Jamaat leader targeting Dhaka University and its female students. The protest was held on Sunday at around 7 pm in front of the Raju Sculpture on the  Quniversity campus. DUCSU Rarch Secretary Sanjida Ahmed Tonni, member Hema Chakma, leaders of various hall student unions, and leaders from Chhatra Dal, Chhatra Shakti, Socialist Students’ Front, and Revolutionary Students’ Unity were present. The protesters demanded that the Jamaat leader withdraw his comments and issue a public apology. Earlier, on Saturday night, during an election campaign, Barguna District Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary Shamim Ahsan reportedly said, “We have seen that after the DUCSU election, DUCSU had become a den of drugs and a brothel, which Islami Chhatra Shibir has been able to change. Therefore, Jamaat-e-Islami is capable of eradicating all forms of injustice, extortion, and corruption from Bangladesh.” Victory Day observed at Dhaka University through numerous programs In protest against these remarks, students chanted slogans, burned an effigy and later went to the university’s Proctor’s Office to demand justice. DUCSU member Hema Chakma questioned how a political leader could make such comments so openly at an election rally. “Is this what we still have to witness in 2026?” she said. “We, as women, are now sufficiently aware of our rights, our economic freedom, and our social liberation. We are those women who want to raise their voices, especially those who have come to Dhaka University from remote areas.” She added, “If I myself had not been admitted here, I might not have been able to stand here and speak today. If DUCSU, which represents all of us, is labeled as a hub of drugs and a brothel, is this the kind of Bangladesh we want? Absolutely not.” Hema Chakma also alleged that female students at Dhaka University face various forms of harassment. “Women are restricted from going to the Mol Chattar area after 10 pm. Administrative barriers are imposed. Entry to the Central Field is restricted after 5 pm, and various allegations are made. Even after showing ID cards, students are harassed. Our position has always been against such harassment,” she said. Another student leader, Monowar Hossain Pranto, said, “The organization Jamaat-e-Islami, which carried out killings, oppression, and devastation against our mothers and sisters in 1971 and tried to crush our aspiration for independence, is an anti-liberation force. We do not expect anything better from them. They were our enemies in 1971, and they continue to be our enemies in 2024 and 2025.” Dhaka University observes Martyred Intellectuals Day with due solemnity Meanwhile, the university administration has also strongly condemned the statement. In an official press release, Dhaka University authorities said they had drawn attention to the remarks made by Barguna District Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary General Md. Shamim Ahsan regarding the DUCSU building. “The university administration strongly condemns and protests this obscene, vulgar, indecent, and reckless statement. Such remarks have severely damaged the dignity, reputation, tradition, and honor of Dhaka University. The university authorities are calling for the immediate withdrawal of the statement and urge everyone to refrain from making such irresponsible comments,” the statement added.

A three-day art exhibition titled ‘Art for Equality’ began at the University of Dhaka on Wednesday, showcasing 90 artworks by teachers, students and renowned artists from nine universities. Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, Vice Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, inaugurated the exhibition as the chief guest while Dr Shake Manir Uddin, Curator of the exhibition and Chairman of the Department of Art History presided over the event. The exhibition was organised under the supervision of the Department of Art History of the Faculty of Fine Art, University of Dhaka. The exhibition features 90 artworks created by faculties, students, young and renowned artists representing nine public and private universities. The exhibition will remain open from January 21 to 23, daily from 9:00am to 7:30pm. Ambassador Miller underscores women’s leadership at Oxfam photo exhibition

Wagging tails, curious whiskers and smiling faces filled the Dhaka University Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) on Tuesday afternoon (January 20, 2026) as the campus hosted its first-ever Pet Carnival, turning the iconic spot into a lively celebration of companion animals. Organised by Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) with support from the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the colourful event brought together pet lovers and their furry friends for an afternoon of fun, learning and awareness. Read more: US colleges welcome pets in dorms to ease students’ stress

The Dhaka University (DU) authorities have filed a case against those responsible for attacking DU students at New Market Police Station on Thursday at the Science Lab intersection. The case was lodged on the night of January 15, according to a press release issued by the university’s Public Relations Office. The press release stated that Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan immediately spoke with the Home Affairs Adviser to ensure the safety of university students. He has also been maintaining communication with the Education Adviser and other senior government officials regarding the matter. Additionally, the university authorities have formally sent a letter to the Home Secretary seeking to ensure the security of student transportation. The release further mentioned that students of the proposed Central University blocked the Science Lab area on the afternoon of January 15. When a bus carrying Dhaka University students was heading toward the campus, the protesters obstructed it. Upon receiving the information, members of the DU Proctorial Body and the Transport Manager rushed to the spot and managed to escort the bus away. During this time, the protesters attacked the DU students, leaving several of them injured. Referendum: DUCSU announces month-long programme to secure victory for ‘Yes’ In protest against the incident, Dhaka University students staged a sit-in at the Nilkhet area on the evening of January 15. The Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, the Treasurer, the Proctor, the Provost of Shaheed Sergeant Zahurul Haq Hall, the Director of the Institute of Leather Engineering and Technology, senior faculty members, assistant proctors, DUCSU leaders, and leaders of the Zahurul Haq Hall unit spoke with the students and expressed solidarity with them. The press release also noted that the administrator of Central University has expressed regret to the Dhaka University authorities over the incident.

A bus of Dhaka University was vandalised at the Science Lab intersection in the capital on Thursday during a blockade enforced by students of seven government colleges, leaving at least two students injured. The incident occurred around 2:30 pm (January 15, 2026) when a Dhaka University bus was halted due to the blockade, said witnesses. Read More: Affiliation of 7 colleges with Dhaka University officially terminated They said an argument broke out between students travelling on the bus and the protesting students of the seven colleges. When members of the university’s proctorial team arrived and were escorting the bus away from the area, bricks were thrown from behind, shattering the bus windows and damaging its exterior.

People from all walks of life paid their last tribute to eminent writer, essayist, and Emeritus Professor of the English Department at Dhaka University Syed Manzoorul Islam at Aparajeyo Bangla of Dhaka University and the Central Shaheed Minar on Saturday. The body of Manzoorul Islam was taken to Aparajeyo Bangla of Dhaka University at around 10:30 am and then it was taken to the Central Shaheed Minar for people of all walks of life to pay their last respects. At Aparajeyo Bangla, Chairperson of English Department Professor Dr. Tazin Aziz Chaudhury, former and current students of the English Department, Dean of the Faculty of Arts Prof D. Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan, and teachers and students of various departments, among others, paid tributes by placing wreaths on his coffin. Former Industries Minister Nurul Majid no more His namaz-e-janaza will be held at Dhaka University Central Mosque after Zohr prayers and then he will be buried at the Martyred Intellectuals’ Graveyard in Mirpur. Professor Syed Manzoorul Islam passed away on Friday afternoon. He was 74. Prof Manzoorul Islam breathed his last at 5:00 pm while undergoing treatment at LabAid Hospital in the capital. Last Friday, Professor Islam had suffered a massive heart attack while on his way to the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh (ULAB).  

The 153rd birth anniversary of Nawab Sir Salimullah was celebrated today with grand arrangements at the historic Salimullah Muslim Hall of the University of Dhaka. Although Salimullah’s birth date is June 7, due to the Eid-ul-Azha holidays, it was decided to observe the event on June 24. It is known that during the previous Awami League government, Nawab Salimullah was never officially commemorated. Many say that both the past government and the university administration tried to obscure the contribution of this Muslim ruler to the founding of Dhaka University. Dhaka University unveils budget for FY 2025-26 On the occasion of the day, various programs began in the morning. A colorful rally was brought out from the Salimullah Muslim Hall premises, which paraded around the campus. The rally was led by the honorable Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan. Participating with him in the rally were Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr. Sayma Haque Bidisha, Treasurer Professor Dr. M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Proctor Associate Professor Saifuddin Ahmed, and Hall Provost Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun. In the evening, following the rally, a discussion meeting and closing ceremony were held in the hall premises. The discussion was presided over by the Provost of Salimullah Muslim Hall, Dr. Abdullah-Al-Mamun. The chief guest at the event was Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan. Highlighting Nawab Salimullah’s historical contribution, he said, “Nawab Salimullah’s contribution behind the founding of Dhaka University is undeniable. This university is a realization of his dream and efforts.” “Acknowledging someone’s contribution is very important. Even though the previous administration tried to conceal his role, we are expressing our gratitude to him”, he added. Treasurer Professor M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury said, “If Nawab Salimullah would not take the initiative to establish Dhaka University, perhaps today’s Bangladesh would not have achieved independence. His contribution is eternally memorable in the nation’s history. Just as he was a guide for the awakening of the Bengalis, he was also an honorable figure among Muslim rulers, like Khalifa Harunur Rashid.” Special remarks were given by the Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Professor Dr. Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman Khan, and author and researcher Professor Dr. Md. Alamgir. Other guests present included members of the Nawab family, convenor of the Dhaka University Alumni Association Shamsuzzaman Dudu, member-secretary A. T. M. Abdul Bari Danny, and Vice Presidents of the Salimullah Hall Alumni Association Nasir Uddin Mahmud and Abul Kashem Chowdhury. Throughout the day, essay and quiz competitions were held in which students participated by focusing on the life and contributions of Nawab Salimullah. At the end of the event, a dinner was arranged with the participation of guests, teachers, students, and alumni.

Two students of Dhaka University (DU) have been assaulted for protesting eve-teasing at 'Jasmin Fabrics' shop at the city's Chandni Chowk market. The incident occurred at around 9:30 pm on Monday, according to witnesses and the victims. Shahedul Islam and Ayazur Rahman, student of 2023–24 session, were injured seriously, doctors at Dhaka University Medical Center, where they were admitted, said Tuesday. Victim Farhan, a student of the Philosophy Department said, “I, Ayaz, and Masrat Apu, a student of the Social Welfare Department, went to that shop to buy clothes. While bargaining, when we refused to pay the price demanded by the shopkeeper. They made obscene comments directed at Masrat apu. We protested such eve-teasing.”  DU committee submits probe report on Shammo murder "Following this incident, the situation escalated. The shop manager and nearby shopkeepers together started shouting 'thief' and attacked us, he added" Shahedul and Ayazur were seriously injured. Later, they were taken to the university medical center for treatment. Victim Shahedul filed a case at New Market Police Station at night. Shopkeepers could not be contacted for comments about the allegations. New Market Police Station Officer-in-Charge AKM Mahfuzul Haque said, “Already a person named Milon has been arrested. Based on preliminary questioning, a list of four individuals has been made.”  First class graduates from American University of Baghdad, once Saddam's palace The entire area is under CCTV surveillance. “The other accused will be arrested soon after analyzing the video,” he added.

A group of students under the banner of ‘General Students of Bangladesh’ on Friday besieged Shahbagh police station demanding justice for Dhaka University student Shammo who was murdered at Suhrawardy Udyan last week. The protesters marched and surrounded the police station at around 11:30am. Earlier, they gathered in front of the university’s Institute of Education and Research, marched to the Raju sculpture, and then proceeded toward Shahbagh police station. Participating in the march, the students chanted slogans demanding justice for Shahriar Alam Shammo, and ensuring  safety of the campus. They said that those involved in the murder must be arrested quickly and a safe campus must be ensured. During the siege, a delegation from the protesters entered the police station for discussion. DU students hold torch procession to protest Shammo's death The delegation included Institute of Education and Research teachers Dr. Muhammad Abdus Salam, Dr. Asim Das, Dr. Sirajul Islam, and four students.  Ibrahim Munshi, one of the protesters, said, “This is a non-partisan movement. Different political parties are trying to use Shammo’s death for their own interests. But our only demand is to ensure justice for Shammo.” He further said, “Even after 72 hours, the main accused has not been arrested. We have come peacefully with a just demand. If the culprits are not arrested within 48 hours, another siege programme will be called.” Shammo, a student of the 2018–19 session at the Institute of Education and Research and literary and publication secretary of JCD’s AF Rahman Hall unit, was stabbed inside Suhrawardy Udyan on Tuesday night. He was declared dead after being taken to hospital. Early Wednesday, police detained three youths from the Green Road and Rajabazar areas in connection with the murder. They have been in jail since the detention.    

A Dhaka University student reportedly committed suicide inside at a residential apartment in the Hatirpool area under Kalabagan police station in the city on Monday evening. The deceased was identified as Pinak Ranjan Sarker, 24, a master's student of the Drawing and Painting Department at Dhaka University. Sub-Inspector (SI) Md Iqbal Hossain of Kalabagan Police Station confirmed the incident saying the the body of Pinak was recovered the body from a ninth-floor apartment at 187/5 School Street, Hatirpool, after breaking down the door on Monday night. The body was found hanging from a ceiling fan hook with a piece of towel inside a room, he said. The body was sent to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) morgue for autopsy. Interpol issues red notice against former IGP Benazir Primary investigation suggests that he died by suicide, but the exact cause will be determined after getting the autopsy report,” said SI Iqbal on Tuesday. Talking to reporters at the DMCH, Pinak’s roommate Zahid Hasan said he returned home in the evening and found the room locked from inside with no response from Pinak. He then informed police through the national emergency helpline 999. Police arrived and broke open the door to find the body. Zahid mentioned that Pinak had been showing signs of depression for the past month, often remaining quiet, though he never shared specific concerns. Hailed from Mymensingh Sadar upazila, Pinak was the son of Prithish Ranjan Sarker. He was the eldest among two brothers and a sister and had been residing in the rented apartment in Hatirpool.