Barishal University VC sent on leave amid protests

Barishal University’s vice-chancellor has been sent on leave amid student protests that sparked on Independence Day programme last month.

Vice-Chancellor Dr SM Imamul Haque applied for leave, and subsequently was granted leave today, our Jhalakathi correspondent reports.

Acting Registrar Hasinur Rahman told The Daily Star that the leave period is from April 11 to May 26. “May 27 is his last day at office,” he said.

As per the term of the current VC, Dr Haque will remain at office until March 27 and pave way for a fresh appointment for the university.

The vice-chancellor allegedly foul-mouthed after students demonstrated at campus protesting the ignorance in Independence Day programme at campus.

Since then, the students burst into protests demanding resignation of the VC. The refused to accept an apology when Dr Haque offered on March 29.

Amid protests, Barishal University was closed and the dormitories asked to be vacated on March 28. Later, the university reopened on April 7.

However, the students had vowed to continue protests.