DU forms 2 committees to probe rape threat against DUCSU candidate

Dhaka University on Tuesday formed two separate probe committees to investigate a rape threat made on social media against a female student contesting in the upcoming Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) election.

One of the committees was formed by the DUCSU Election Commission, while the other was set up by the university’s proctorial team.

Speaking at a press conference held at the university’s Senate Building on Monday, Chief Returning Officer Prof Mohammad Zashim Uddin said the election commission’s committee has been directed to submit its report within three working days.

“The committee is also working on ways to combat cyberbullying,” Prof Zashim said, adding that members of the team have already met with the chairman of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to address the issue.

He further stated that university officials recently held a meeting with the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) commissioner to ensure security during the DUCSU elections. “A comprehensive security protocol has been formulated to ensure safety on campus and on election day,” he added.

Meanwhile, DU Proctor Prof Saifuddin Ahmed said the proctorial committee has been instructed to submit its report by tonight.

The incident has sparked outrage among students and rights groups, raising urgent concerns over the safety of female candidates and the prevalence of online threats in campus politics.