Chhatra Union condemns JnU administration over ‘security failure’ after attempted rape incident

The Jahangirnagar University (JnU) unit of Bangladesh Chhatra Union has strongly condemned the university administration, alleging serious failure to ensure student safety following an attempted rape incident involving a female student on campus.

In a statement issued on Wednesday (May 13), the organisation said the residential university is becoming increasingly unsafe for students and held the administration fully responsible for the deteriorating security situation.

Describing the incident as “horrific and unacceptable,” the student body said it was not an isolated case but a reflection of long-standing security vulnerabilities on campus. It added that despite repeated incidents in the past, the administration has failed to implement any sustainable security measures beyond short-term responses.

The statement also criticised the university’s proctorial body, referring to remarks attributed to the proctor suggesting that student safety falls under the registrar’s office rather than the proctorial office. The organisation termed the comment “irresponsible and an attempt to evade accountability.”

Chhatra Union said such positions expose deeper administrative weaknesses and a lack of accountability, which have contributed to the breakdown of campus security systems.

The organisation placed four demands, including swift identification and legal action against the accused, a full review of past security lapses, clarification and accountability regarding the proctor’s statement, and strict control over the entry of outsiders into the campus.

Warning of tougher action, the group said students are increasingly feeling unsafe in both residential and non-residential halls, and that the situation has reached a critical point.

It added that if the administration fails to take visible and effective steps, students will be compelled to launch stronger protests and movements.