An indefinite work stoppage by teachers, officers, and employees at Rajshahi University entered its second day on Tuesday, following clashes with students over the reinstatement of the “ward quota.” The collective shutdown has left the campus largely deserted.
The program began at 9 a.m., with employees staging a sit-in beside the administration building. Most offices remain locked, though a few are partially open. While some students and staff were seen on campus, overall activities have come to a standstill.
Professor Delwar Hossain of the Fisheries Department said: “On the 20th, our pro-vice-chancellor and proctor, among others, were physically and mentally assaulted. This shutdown is a protest against that incident. Until justice is ensured, we will continue this program.”
Abu Md. Tarek, Deputy Registrar of the Academic Section, added: “Our demand is clear—the humiliation of the pro-vice-chancellor must be properly addressed. Until then, we will not return to work.”
Earlier, the Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RUCSU) election had created a festive atmosphere on campus. But the administration’s decision to reinstate the ward quota sparked protests among students. On Saturday, tensions escalated into scuffles between students and teachers-officers. In response, teachers and staff declared an indefinite shutdown, demanding exemplary punishment for the assailants and the continuation of the quota.
Amid the crisis, the RUCSU Election Commission held an emergency meeting yesterday and decided to postpone the election. The new voting date has been set for October 16.