DUCSU election: Administration removes banners for code of conduct violations

Dhaka University administration has removed several banners from the campus for violating the election code of conduct during the ongoing Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) elections.

On Wednesday afternoon, the university’s code of conduct task force took down banners hung by various student panels at multiple locations across the campus and transported them away in a van.

Campaigning officially began on August 26 morning, with banners from groups including the united student coalition of Chhatra Shibir, independent candidate Jamaluddin Khalid, the expelled NCP leader Mahin Government’s ‘Coordinated Student Parliament,’ and Umama Fatema’s ‘Independent Student Unity’ displayed around key campus spots such as the TSC, Social Science Quadrangle, Fine Arts, Hall areas, and Karzon Hall.

However, the university’s election code of conduct permits only the distribution of handbills, posters, and leaflets, but strictly prohibits hanging or displaying any banners, festoons, or boards on campus.

According to a notice signed by Chief Returning Officer Professor Dr. Jasim Uddin on August 26, Section 7(a) of the code permits only black-and-white printed posters, leaflets, or handbills to be printed and distributed for campaigning purposes. Use of PVC, fabric, or other materials for banners, festoons, or boards is forbidden. Candidates found violating these rules were instructed to remove their materials immediately.

Professor Golam Rabbani, convener of the task force, was present during the banner removal at TSC. He told reporters, “The code of conduct does not allow these banners; they were put up without knowledge of the rules, so we are removing them. No banners, festoons, or boards will be allowed anywhere on campus, and stickers are also banned. Only black-and-white handbills and leaflets can be distributed. Any further violations will lead to disciplinary action.”