Body formed to probe burning books on Bangabandhu, Hasina at Barguna Polytechnic

More than 300 books related to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Sheikh Hasina were set on fire at Barguna Polytechnic Institute on Monday afternoon (August 18).

According to eyewitnesses, 25-30 students took the books from the institute’s library and burned them in front of the main gate. The books included biographies, research, and political histories about Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Sheikh Hasina.

Preliminary investigations indicate involvement of activists from Chhatra Dal, Chhatra Shibir, and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.

Atiqur Rahman, former coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement at the institute, claimed the action was taken after repeated requests since August 5 to remove the books, which were not acted upon.

Sarwar Hossain, secretary of the Barguna Islami Chhatra Shibir branch, confirmed the books remained in the library despite assurances from teachers that they would be removed.

However, Barguna Polytechnic Institute Chhatra Dal President Shahriar Tahsin denied involvement of Chhatra Dal, stating the incident was carried out by general students.

In response, the institute formed a seven-member investigation committee led by Registrar Md. Ziaul Haque, tasked with submitting a report within seven working days.