Insan Ali: Student politics at Rajshahi University negatively impacts academic affairs, with extortion, exam fraud, cocktail explosions, armed (da) fights, and ragging creating fear on campus, particularly in the halls. The RU Chhatra League frequently kidnaps and assaults students, often targeting Shibir members.

Student politics significantly influences educational functions, leading to student torture, harassment of campus journalists, and interference with activities, which severely impact society and education. Academic schedules are often disrupted due to strikes and protests, causing students to fall behind in their studies. The pervasive atmosphere of fear and violence deters many from participating in campus life, affecting their overall university experience.

Many involved in student politics at Rajshahi University are not even students. Individuals like Adubhai have been staying on campus for over 10 years. Issues such as women scandals, drugs, extortion, and various illegal activities are daily occurrences among student political activists.

Around 10 political organizations exist on campus, including Chatra League, Shibir, Chatra Dal, and various communist and socialist groups. Currently, the Chatra League is the dominant political organization. In the halls, they occupy ‘Chatra League blocks’ to accomplish their goals. These blocks often contain arms such as large knives (‘ram da’) and cricket stumps, used to attack opponents. The political activities of other student groups and leftist organizations are less visible.

Recently, the Rajshahi University authorities issued a press release regarding a political issue. They expressed deep concern over the recent conflict between students at Hossain Shaheed Suhrawardy Hall. During a meeting with senior officials, they emphasized dialogue and restraint to restore harmony among the conflicting students. The administration has issued instructions to maintain peace and order on campus, with students pledging full cooperation. The university is committed to preserving its long-standing educational environment and continuing its academic and cultural activities as usual.

The university administration is calling for the cooperation of all concerned to ensure a safe and conducive atmosphere for learning and growth, aiming to mitigate the adverse effects of student politics on education.

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