Chhatra Dal meets VC to discuss progress on probe into online disinformation

Dhaka University Chhatra Dal leaders met with Vice-Chancellor Professor A B M Obaidul Islam on Wednesday afternoon, April 29, to inquire about the progress of the investigation into online disinformation being spread using the university's name.

The meeting took place at the VC's office, led by DU unit Chhatra Dal President Ganesh Chandra Roy Sahos and General Secretary Nahiduzzaman Shipon.

On April 26, Chhatra Dal had submitted a memorandum to the vice-chancellor, demanding action within 48 hours against those allegedly spreading false and provocative information on various Facebook pages using the university's name. The student body claims such pages are being used to target Chhatra Dal and BNP leaders and activists.

After the meeting, Chhatra Dal President Sahos told reporters that the vice-chancellor assured them that the allegations were being taken seriously and that a probe committee is already working on the matter. He said the VC expects to publish a report soon.

Shipon alleged that since August 5, 2024, a coordinated group has been running several Facebook pages under the university's banner to spread misinformation and create instability on campus. He claimed that these pages have been targeting Chhatra Dal and BNP leaders, as well as female student activists.

Earlier complaints to the administration had not yielded effective results, they said.

The student body said it has agreed to give the administration the time it needs, while urging the authorities not to let the matter slide.

Meanwhile, the central Chhatra Dal has formed a four-member probe committee to investigate the recent attack on journalists inside Shahbagh Police Station, the leaders added.