- Jun 17, 2026
At the University of Barishal (BU), student political activities continue on campus even though they were officially banned over a year ago. Student organizations have been operating freely, largely avoiding administrative oversight, which has caused frustration among the student body.
On August 11 of last year, during the 85th Syndicate meeting, the university formally suspended all political activities of student and professional organizations on campus. However, less than a year later, students report that various political groups continue to hold events and programs.
Some professional organizations are also operating without administrative approval. The recently formed “Nationalist Staff Council” is led by convener driver Mamun Sheikh and secretary Zakir Mridha, a security guard.
Students report that the Nationalist Student Party organized a worker conference with central leaders at the Kirtankhola Auditorium on July 29. Other activities include leaflet distribution for freshmen, exhibitions and discussions on Martyred Intellectuals Day, Victory Day rallies, protests, and sit-ins. The Islamic Student Camp has also held bicycle rallies, tree planting, religious ceremonies, and Eid al-Adha student feasts.
On July 22, the Democratic Student Council organized a referendum on student council elections under their banner. While the NCP student wing BAGSAS has not formed a formal committee, aspirants have been carrying out campus campaigns and displaying banners.
Assistant Professor and Proctor Dr. Rahat Hossain Faisal stated that student politics is prohibited on campus, and the administration will take necessary measures against those who violate the ban.
Students, however, see the political organizations as empowered due to the administration’s silence. Physics student Md. Arifur Rahman Anik said, “I am personally against student politics. A university is a place for learning, and politics disrupts the environment.” Sher-e-Bangla Hall student Asif Billah criticized the administration’s inaction, noting, “Ignoring the ban and allowing political activities confuses the student body.”
Leaders of various political organizations have commented that healthy student politics should exist on campus, and the administration should engage in dialogue to reinstate it responsibly.
Professor Md. Mohsin Uddin, the acting Registrar, stated, “The administration will act according to the rules if the ban is violated.” However, Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Taufiq Alam declined to comment on why action has not been taken despite ongoing political activities.
This situation has raised concerns among students, who are awaiting effective administrative measures to ensure that the University of Barishal becomes a true center for education.
