The students of Dhaka University's Mass Communication and Journalism (MCJ) department have declared an indefinite boycott of all academic activities, demanding the immediate suspension of Prof. Naadir Junaid, who faces a formal sexual harassment complaint filed by a female student.
Additionally, the students have declared Prof. Naadir persona non-grata on campus. Students from all batches collectively announced an indefinite class boycott and protest program on Saturday night.
In a memorandum submitted to the department’s chairperson, Prof Abul Mansur Ahmed on Sunday morning, students raised three key points: urgent formation of an inquiry committee to investigate the sexual harassment allegations against Prof. Naadir Junaid; swift and decisive punishment for sexual predators; and the suspension of the teacher from all academic activities during the investigation period.
“Under the current circumstances, all current students of the department have decided to boycott all academic activities, including classes and examinations, until action is taken against the allegations of sexual harassment and psychological abuse against Professor Nadir Junaid,” the students wrote in the memorandum.
“We are steadfast in our decision not to resume classroom activities until our demands are addressed. If required, more measures may be taken,” it added.
Beginning at 8:30 am on Sunday, students gathered in the department corridor, displaying placards and banners, while chanting slogans against Prof. Naadir Junaid, reports our DU correspondent.
Posters declaring Prof. Naadir persona non-grata were displayed on the department's notice board and in various locations across the campus.
Read: DU student files sexual harassment complaint against senior teacher of MCJ dept
Following discussions with the Department Chairperson and two other faculty members, who visited the Vice Chancellor’s office to address the matter after receiving the memorandum, protesting students organised a procession that moved towards the VC office via Mall Chhatar, concluding at the base of Aparajeyo Bangla.