DU teachers demand trial of Hasina, AL-backed academics

A group of nationalist teachers at the Dhaka University (DU), under the banner of 'Sada Dal', formed a human-chain on Sunday, demanding the trial of the ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and Awami League (AL)-backed teachers at the university.

The demonstration began at 11:30 am in front of the 'Oporajeyo Bangla' sculpture on the DU campus, where speakers also called for the revocation of the Emeritus Professor title from individuals allegedly involved in corruption and accused of supporting authoritarianism.

Prof Dr Morshed Hasan Khan, convener of ‘Sada Dal’, sharply criticised a recently leaked audio clip purportedly featuring Sheikh Hasina instructing party activists to attack demonstrators. He also denounced a statement issued by pro-AL teachers that expressed concern over recent incidents of mob violence.

"When students were attacked, where was their so-called ethical voice?" Prof Khan questioned. "There is ample evidence of their collaboration with fascist elements. They must be held accountable if we are to eliminate fascism from this country," he added.

Abul Kalam Sarker, joint convener of the platform, said, "Putting Sheikh Hasina on trial would be the most significant reform for this nation. A fascist regime never acts alone - it thrives through a network of collaborators."

Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Professor Dr Siddiqur Rahman Khan, strongly urged the government to prevent Hasina's allies from creating an unstable situation in the country.

"Sheikh Hasina is trying to destabilize the country by inciting ordinary leaders and activists through various audio-video messages from neighbouring India."

He further said during this movement, a group of teachers who identified themselves as intellectuals incited Hasina to commit genocide.

The protesting teachers underscored the importance of justice and accountability in academia, stating that safeguarding democratic values requires confronting those allegedly complicit in political repression and institutional corruption.

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