'Gupto' graffiti, 'No Politics' banner burning spark tension at RUET

Tension gripped Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology (RUET) campus on Monday, April 27, over wall writings and the burning of a banner that read 'No Politics'.

Two groups of students held separate protests during the day, escalating the situation. One group, positioned in front of the administrative building, demanded the continuation of the ban on student politics on campus. Simultaneously, another group, led by Chhatra Dal supporters, staged a protest at the main gate demanding the withdrawal of the ban.

The students protesting in front of the administrative building raised three demands, including the expulsion of those attempting to destabilise the campus in the name of reviving student politics, an explanation from the administration regarding political activities despite the ban, and a decision on student politics through a referendum.

The protesting students questioned how a particular organisation was continuing its activities despite the ban and demanded a clear stance from the administration. They also called for a referendum to decide the matter based on student opinion.

Meanwhile, Chhatra Dal supporters at the main gate demanded the withdrawal of the ban on student politics and also questioned the identity of the 'general students' protesting in front of the administrative building. One student alleged that a covert political group was active under the guise of 'general students' and was agitating to keep student politics banned.

The tension began on Sunday night after a banner inscribed with 'No Politics' was torn down and set on fire. The banner had been put up following various wall writings on campus, including the word 'gupto' (covert).

Protesting the burning of the banner, a group of students brought out a procession, holding Chhatra Dal responsible. As the procession reached near Zia Hall, they faced counter-protests from Chhatra Dal supporters. Teachers later intervened to bring the situation under control.

Following the unrest, some students announced a boycott of classes and examinations on Sunday night. Subsequently, no classes or exams were held on campus on Monday.

Tension continues to prevail on campus, and the university administration is closely monitoring the situation.