BNP, Jamaat activists take position near Rajshahi University

Bangla Press Desk:   Elections to Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RUCSU) have progressed smoothly, but tensions could spike as BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami activists have taken positions near the university campus and across Rajshahi city.

As of filing of this report, no untoward incident was reported, even though the political presence is growing.

BNP activist Rabiul Islam Rabi told Banglanews24, “We saw in various media that Jamaat and Shibir supporters are gathering near the campus. That’s why we are also present. We don’t want an election like DUCSU or JUCSUS in Rajshahi University.”

Rabiul, former member secretary of Rajshahi Metropolitan Jubo Dal, had taken position near the Kazla Gate of the university.

“Rajshahi is a peaceful city. There is a sense of brotherhood among everyone here. There will be no trouble,” the BNP activist added.

Al Amin, a Jamaat supporter who was stationed in the Kazla water pump area, said, “We haven’t seen a fair election in Rajshahi for many years. We have come to witness the RUCSU election. Since we don’t have access to go inside, we’re waiting outside.”

“No one has it written on their chest who belongs to the BNP or who belongs to Jamaat. Rajshahi is a peaceful city. There is no possibility of any trouble.”

In front of the university’s Kazla Main Gate, leaders and activists of the Jubo Dal are stationed. About a hundred meters away, near the Kazla water pump area, activists of Jamaat-Shibir are positioned, and another hundred meters from there, near the university’s main gate, BNP leaders and activists are gathered. BNP and Jamaat activists have also been seen in the Talaimari, Binodpur, and Octroi Mor areas.

In addition, leaders and activists from both parties have gathered in nearby areas such as Budhpara, University Station, and the Koraitola rail overpass

BP/TD