JU teachers, students demand VC’s removal

A section of teachers and students of Jahangirnagar University (JU) today demanded resignation of Vice-Chancellor Prof Farzana Islam for her alleged involvement in corruption and irregularities.  

They also issued an ultimatum till October 1 for the VC to resign, saying that the VC has lost her position ethically to the post.

Prof Raihan Rhyne of Philosophy department, also the coordinator of ‘Jahangirnagar Against Corruption’, announced the ultimatum at a press briefing at the New Arts Building around 7:30pm. Earlier, they held a meeting with the university administration but they could not reach any settlement on their demands.

The teachers and students also declared the VC persona-non-grata to all buildings during admission test scheduled to be held from September 22 to October 1.

They also vowed to go on a tougher movement if their ultimatum is not fulfilled.

Meanwhile, talking to the media, JU VC Prof Farzana Islam said, “If the higher authorities of the state ask me to resign, I will resign from the post. If they don’t say it, I will continue my duties overlooking criticism of the protesters.”

However, she denied her involvement with the alleged corruption. She also told the reporters that she had informed the matter to the UGC and prime minister.  

The agitated students of JU have been demonstrating on the campus since August 23 judicial probe into the allegations of corruption and irregularities.