White panel’s DUCSU claims hypocritical Univ Teachers’ Link
Staff Reporter :
The University Teachers’ Link (UTL), an association of public and private university teachers, has dismissed as “hypocritical” the allegations of irregularities in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election raised by the BNP-leaning White Panel.
UTL pointed out that the election was largely overseen by White Panel-affiliated teachers themselves, making their subsequent accusations contradictory and insincere. The remarks were delivered at a press conference on Saturday in front of the DUCSU building, where UTL convener Professor Ataur Rahman Biswas read out a written statement on the election results and ensuing debates.
Professor Biswas noted that the White Panel, an alliance of teachers aligned with the BNP, had issued a “disappointing” statement about the DUCSU election. Since July, he said, the White Panel has been in control of much of Dhaka University’s administration: deans of several faculties and provosts of 16 out of 18 halls are linked to the group.
He further highlighted that of the 10 members of the Election Commission for the DUCSU polls, eight were from the White Panel and two from the Gulapi Dal, while most returning and polling officers were also known White Panel members.
“When the bulk of election responsibilities rested with White Panel teachers, to now allege ‘fraud and irregularities’ is a textbook case of double standards. Such behaviour calls into question the moral credibility of those making these claims,” he said.
Professor Biswas added that empty ballot boxes had been sealed in the presence of observers and media representatives before voting began, and that between 8am and 4pm no incidents of fraud, manipulation, ballot-box snatching or CCTV blackout were reported. Counting was broadcast live on CCTV, with results declared in front of all stakeholders.
“Nevertheless, the White Panel’s baseless allegations have caused disappointment among students, teachers, and the wider public,” he said.
He further remarked that in a democracy, both victory and defeat are natural, serving to nurture political awareness and responsibility among students.
“Dhaka University is not anyone’s private estate; it is a hub of free thought, maintained by taxpayers’ money. A hegemonic mindset only curtails students’ freedom of expression,” he observed.
He warned that attempts to secure victory “at any cost,” by rejecting the voters’ mandate, could sow division and conflict, ultimately damaging the academic atmosphere. Such acts, he said, were “nothing but a calculated attempt to undermine democratic achievements.”
Professor Biswas urged teachers who had direct involvement in the election to speak the truth and properly guide students.
Also present at the press briefing were UTL Member-Secretary Professor Dr Mohammad Bilal Hossain, Professor Munira Jahan, and others.
The organisation placed three demands: that the university administration and the Election Commission clarify the “groundless allegations” regarding the polls, that measures be taken to prevent harassment of students or interference with their mandate, and that the White Panel withdraw its controversial statement.
The UTL also urged the university authorities to take legal steps against any attempt to undermine the election, which has already been widely praised at home and abroad as free and fair.
Just a day earlier, citing a television report, the White Panel had alleged “massive manipulation and irregularities” in the DUCSU election.