The writer revisits the period of student political agitation against the administration of H M Ershad, noting its impact on academic life and campus conditions in Bangladesh. During that era, universities were frequently closed at extremely short notice, sometimes within one or two hours of announcement. These abrupt shutdowns significantly disrupted academic continuity, resulting in extended study periods. Undergraduate and postgraduate programmes that would normally be completed within four years often required approximately seven years to finish.
Such closures became informally known among students as “Ershad vacations”. Despite the disruption, the writer observes that many students did not express significant personal dissatisfaction at the time. This was attributed to the fact that major universities, including the University of Dhaka, had simultaneously developed into active centres of cultural, literary, and artistic engagement.
However, the period was also characterised by intense political competition among student organisations. According to the account, rivalries existed not only between opposing political student wings but also within factions of the same groups. These tensions, at times, escalated into serious confrontations, including armed clashes and reported fatalities.
Summary of reported campus conditions during the period
| Category | Description (as reported in the account) |
|---|---|
| Academic disruption | Frequent sudden university closures and delayed academic progression |
| Political rivalry | Conflicts among and within student organisations |
| Violence | Reports of armed clashes and fatalities in some instances |
| Campus control issues | Allegations of external influence in residential halls |
| Informal practices | Claims of coercive behaviour in campus facilities |
The narrative further refers to the presence of politically affiliated student cadres on campuses. It is stated that some groups were accompanied by armed associates and engaged in demonstrations of influence within university premises. The writer also refers to allegations regarding the involvement of non-students in residential halls, which, according to the account, resulted in displacement of regular students in some cases.
Additional claims include alleged pressure on university services, such as dining facilities, where payments were reportedly not made under coercive circumstances. The account also mentions reported instances of extortion in commercial areas surrounding educational institutions and intimidation of resident students regarding personal expenses.
The writer further notes that, during that period, certain allegations circulated concerning misconduct by some student leaders, including harassment-related behaviour. These statements are presented as part of broader discussions and perceptions within campus environments at the time.
Following the end of the Ershad administration, successive governments assumed office in Bangladesh. The writer observes that, over time, individuals with strong political links within student movements often progressed into significant political roles. These included positions as Members of Parliament, ministers, and other senior offices. It is also noted that individuals perceived as politically aligned or opportunistic were sometimes appointed to advisory or contractual government positions.
The narrative then references recent political developments, including a mass uprising against the government led by Sheikh Hasina. It states that following this, an interim administration led by Professor Muhammad Yunus governed the country from August 2024 to mid-February 2026. According to the writer, this period did not meet public expectations in terms of governance outcomes.
Attention is subsequently drawn to the formation of a new government and concerns surrounding candidate selection for parliamentary roles. The account states that some nominated individuals include businesspersons with loan default histories, elderly or unwell political figures, and new entrants allegedly associated with controversial activities during their earlier student years. This, according to the writer, has generated public concern regarding governance standards.
The narrative also describes administrative environments, particularly the Secretariat, as being heavily populated by politically affiliated individuals engaged in administrative processes such as postings, promotions, transfers, and procurement-related activities. Similar observations are made regarding ministerial residences and government offices, with concerns expressed about increasing irregularities and alleged corruption.
Finally, the writer outlines public expectations from the new government. These include controlling inflation in essential commodities, ensuring effective governance, expanding employment opportunities, reducing corruption, establishing rule of law, and strengthening democratic institutions. The account emphasises the need for accountability, justice, security, and freedom of expression, noting that citizens expect tangible improvements in daily life and governance outcomes.
Manjur Rashid Bidyut
Social and political analyst and researcher