Baton charge on students is unacceptable in a civilized society: BUET VC

Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Abu Borhan Mohammad Badruzzaman has strongly condemned the police baton charge on protesting students, calling it “unacceptable in a civilized society” and demanding action against those responsible.

Speaking at Shahbagh intersection on Wednesday evening (August 27) while expressing solidarity with the protesting students, the BUET VC said, “Such behaviour by law enforcement is not acceptable. Action should be taken against those involved after proper investigation.”

Earlier in the day, around 1:30pm, a clash erupted between police and engineering students as the latter marched toward the chief adviser’s residence to press home their three-point demand. Police reportedly used tear gas, sound grenades, water cannons, and baton charges to disperse the crowd, injuring several students and journalists in the process.

Professor Badruzzaman said BUET has provided initial treatment to the injured students, while many remain admitted at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and other facilities.

He assured that all necessary support would be extended to them.

The VC also confirmed that he and the Pro-Vice Chancellor met with the Education Adviser regarding the students’ demands. Following the meeting, a government-formed committee was announced to address the ongoing crisis. However, students rejected the committee, chanting slogans such as “I don’t trust the committee” and “Fake, fake,” expressing their dissatisfaction and distrust.

In response, the students have withdrawn their initial three-point demands and placed a revised five-point charter. As part of their pre-announced “Long March to Dhaka” programme, the protesters occupied Shahbagh's main thoroughfare from 11.00am, severely disrupting traffic in the area.

Tensions escalated when police obstructed their attempt to move toward Jamuna around 1:30pm.