HSC centre vandalised in Bhola over tough questions, exam rigging denial

A HSC examination centre at Fatema-Matin Women's College in Char Fashion upazila, Bhola, has been vandalised following allegations of tough questions and denial of copying opportunities. At least 8-10 people were injured in the incident on Saturday afternoon, July 11. Police fired two tear gas shells to bring the situation under control.

College acting principal and centre secretary Mohiuddin Bachchu said the examination was being conducted strictly under government directives. Some examinees demanded copying opportunities as the ICT paper was difficult. When teachers resisted, they began misbehaving. After the exam, they attacked and vandalised the college with outsiders.

Witnesses said 300-350 students tried to enter the college around 1:30 pm, broke through the back gate and vandalised the administrative building, principal's room and classrooms with sticks and bricks. Furniture and two air conditioners were damaged. Attackers also tried to snatch answer scripts but were stopped by teachers.

The college management committee president, a history teacher and several political activists were among the injured.

Additional Superintendent of Police Mehedi Hasan of Char Fashion Circle said police fired two tear gas shells to disperse the agitated students and control the situation.

However, some students alleged that teachers at the centre were excessively strict and harassed examinees unnecessarily, which caused resentment.

Char Fashion Upazila Executive Officer Rumana Afroz said the situation is now normal. Legal action will be taken after meetings with teachers, administration and students.