Jahangirnagar University Proctor Resigns Amid Mounting Campus Pressure

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Jahangirnagar University has undergone a significant leadership shift following the resignation of proctor Professor A.K.M. Rashidul Alam, whose departure was formally accepted by university authorities on Wednesday. The administration has appointed Professor Zakir Hossain from the Department of Philosophy to succeed him, according to an office order signed by acting registrar A.B.M. Azizur Rahman.

Professor Rashidul Alam’s tenure was marked by a series of contentious incidents that drew criticism from various student factions and faculty members. His challenges began shortly after his appointment under Vice Chancellor Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, when former student leader Shamim Molla was beaten by a group of students within the proctorial office, eventually succumbing to his injuries. The incident prompted questions regarding the efficacy of the university’s disciplinary oversight.

Further friction emerged during the lead-up to the Jahangirnagar University Central Student Union (JAKSU) elections. Critics, including pro-BNP faculty members and student leaders, accused Professor Rashidul of exhibiting a biased stance while serving as member secretary of the election commission. These allegations, coupled with dissatisfaction from left-leaning student groups, weakened his administrative standing.

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The proctorial body faced heightened scrutiny following a reported attempted assault on a female student near the abandoned Fazilatunnesa Hall on May 12. The incident ignited widespread protests, leading students to padlock the proctor’s office on May 17. Since then, the office had operated out of a temporary space in the university’s Senate Hall.

Administrative pressure appears to have mounted following the sudden removal of university Treasurer Professor Abdur Rob on Monday, a move executed without prior notification. University sources indicated that the dismissal of the treasurer created a ripple effect within the administration, ultimately facilitating the change in the proctorial office. Professor Rashidul Alam declined to comment on the transition, citing his participation in an academic council meeting.