Tension erupted at Dhaka University (DU) Science Library today, on the first day of reopening of libraries, when the assistant proctor attempted to slap a student.
Students later surrounded Liton Kumar Saha, the assistant proctor, and demanded to know why he was about to slap their peer. During the incident, agitated students also harassed two campus reporters who were trying to take photos and videos. The reporters were forced to delete the photos and videos.
Proctor of the University, Prof Dr AKM Golam Rabbani; Chief Librarian, Nasiruddin Munshi; and General Secretary of Teachers Association, Nizamul Haque Bhuiyan, arrived at the scene after hearing of the incident.
They defused the situation by speaking to students and asking for their cooperation.
Liton Kumar told The Daily Star that there was no tension in the library. They only attempted to talk to the students as they rushed into the library.
On the overall issue, AKM Golam Rabbani said, "Students have been asked to follow health rules for their own safety. Former students are not allowed to enter the library; it is only open to regular students. We look forward to working with students to keep the peace," he said, adding that, "Teachers serve as guardians for students. Teachers have the authority to instruct and guide their students. This is something students should consider."
After 18 months, students and alumni entered the library building without following health rules, which resulted in a dispute between administration and students, Assistant Proctor Liton Kumar said.
The library opened from today only for honours fourth year and masters students, according to university authorities, and the residential halls will open on October 5.
Despite an instruction being imposed for students to enter the library by showing their Covid-19 vaccine certificate, it was not followed, university authorities said. Due to the agitation, the teachers in charge claimed that this could not be maintained.
mj/
