Students launch 'DUET Blockade' protesting appointment of new VC

Academic and administrative activities at the Dhaka University of Engineering and Technology (DUET) in Gazipur came to a standstill on Monday (May 18) as students intensified protests against the appointment of the newly designated vice-chancellor.

Students enforcing a pre-announced “DUET Blockade” locked the main entrance of the campus early in the morning, bringing nearly all university operations to a halt. Administrative buildings were also sealed, preventing entry of officials and staff.

Last Thursday, the government appointed Professor Mohammad Iqbal as the new vice-chancellor of DUET through an official notification. Since then, a section of students has been protesting the decision, demanding its cancellation.

Protesters said DUET, being a specialised engineering university, requires leadership familiar with its academic and administrative structure, arguing that the vice-chancellor should be appointed from among its own faculty members.

Demonstrations escalated over the past few days, including road blockades and protest rallies. On Thursday evening, students staged protests on the Dhaka–Shimultoli road, where tyres were set on fire. The agitation continued through Friday, culminating in the declaration of the new VC as “persona non grata” on campus.

Tensions further escalated on Sunday during a “red card” protest against the VC, leading to clashes between opposing student groups. At least 20 people were reported injured.

The protesters have placed a three-point demand: cancellation of the VC appointment, selection of a vice-chancellor from DUET’s own faculty, and punishment of those involved in the clashes.

University authorities said the new vice-chancellor formally joined on Sunday evening but was unable to enter the campus. He later held an online meeting with teachers, officials and staff.

Meanwhile, political student groups have reportedly taken opposing positions on the issue, although protesting students insist the movement is non-partisan and aimed at protecting the university’s academic environment.

Gazipur Sadar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Aminul Islam said the situation remained under control as of Monday morning. Additional police have been deployed in and around the campus to maintain order.