BUET Students' Open Letter to PM Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET)

Students of the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) have issued an open letter to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, appealing for her intervention in maintaining a politics-free environment on their campus. The letter was read aloud during a press conference held on Tuesday evening in front of the Dr. M A Rashid Administrative Bhaban on the BUET campus.

Key Points from the Open Letter

Request for Assistance: The students have appealed to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for her help in keeping their campus free from student politics. They emphasized that the environment at BUET without student politics was safer and more conducive to education.

Commitment to Eliminating Militancy: The students assured the Prime Minister that they are united and committed to eliminating the emergence of militancy on the university campus. They expressed their dedication to maintaining a peaceful and education-friendly environment.

Call for Legal Reform: The students urged the Prime Minister to consider reforming relevant laws if necessary to ensure that the campus remains free from student politics. They highlighted the importance of legal measures to safeguard the educational atmosphere.

Optimism and Appeal for Support: Expressing optimism, the students appealed to the Prime Minister to stand beside them in fulfilling their demand for the greater interest of a smooth education-friendly environment on the BUET campus. They expressed hope for the Prime Minister's support in their endeavor.

In a related development, the High Court (HC) issued an order stating that BUET students can engage in political activities on the campus. The HC bench of Justice Md Khosruzzaman and Justice KM Zahid Sarwar stayed the effectiveness of the university notice that banned student politics on the campus. This decision was made in response to a writ petition filed by BUET student and Chhatra League leader Imtiaz Hossain Rahim Rabbi.

The ban on student politics at BUET was imposed following the tragic murder of second-year student Abrar Fahad by members of Bangladesh Chhatra League at the university's Sher-e-Bangla Hall on October 7, 2019.

The open letter from BUET students to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina reflects their genuine concerns about the impact of student politics on the campus environment. Their appeal for a politics-free campus underscores the importance of maintaining a conducive atmosphere for education and safety. The decision of the High Court to allow political activities on campus adds a layer of complexity to the situation, highlighting the need for constructive dialogue and resolution.

This report summarizes the key points from BUET students' open letter to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and provides context regarding the High Court's decision on student politics at BUET. It underscores the importance of addressing student concerns while navigating legal considerations and ensuring a safe and conducive educational environment.