Barishal civil surgeon's removal demanded; students lock his office symbolically

Students from various educational institutions have staged protests and sit-ins in Barishal, demanding the removal of Dr SM Maniruzzaman Shahin from his post as Civil Surgeon. As part of their protest, they symbolically locked the door of his designated office.

The programme took place in front of the Barishal Civil Surgeon's office on Sunday (July 26) morning.

The protesters alleged that a controversial and convicted official had been given the responsibility of Civil Surgeon, which they said was unacceptable. They later entered the office and learned that although it was the last day for him to join, Dr Maniruzzaman was not present. The agitated students then symbolically locked his office door in protest.

Sabir Hossain, a student of BM College who took part in the protest, said it was not acceptable to give someone facing various allegations the charge of the health department in an important district like Barishal. He demanded that an uncontroversial and honest official be appointed as Civil Surgeon.

Another student, Labonya Akhtar, said the people of Barishal have the right to receive improved healthcare services. Therefore, in the public interest, the controversial official should be removed and a new Civil Surgeon appointed.

Student Naim Islam alleged that they do not want to see an official in Barishal who was involved in torturing students in the past.

The protesters warned that if their demands were not implemented soon, stricter programmes would be announced.