A serious incident of violence has been reported at Daokandi Government University College in Durgapur upazila of Rajshahi, where a local political figure is alleged to have assaulted a female lecturer and other staff members during an on-campus altercation. The accused has been identified as Shahadat Hossain, former vice-president of the Jayanagar Union unit of the Jubo Dal. The episode triggered widespread tension across the campus, leaving at least five people injured, including teachers and support staff.
The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon while examinations for second-year degree students were underway. Authorities had already imposed Section 144 within a 100-yard radius of the college and deployed police personnel in anticipation of potential unrest. Despite these precautionary measures, the situation escalated into violence inside the campus.
According to eyewitness accounts and statements from academic staff, a group of local political activists entered the office of Principal Abdul Razzaq. They allegedly raised questions regarding financial records and administrative irregularities linked to the previous management. The discussion quickly deteriorated into a heated exchange.
It is alleged that during the confrontation, lecturer Aleya Khatun Hira was the first to be physically assaulted. The violence then spread, with the principal, other teachers, and office staff reportedly attacked. Office furniture and property were also damaged during the incident. At least five individuals sustained injuries, some of whom were later admitted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital for treatment.
The sudden outbreak of violence caused panic among examinees, disrupting the examination environment and creating chaos across the campus. Police stationed nearby intervened promptly in an attempt to restore order and separate the opposing groups.
Injured persons and condition
| Name | Position/Identity | Type of Injury | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Abdul Razzaq | Principal | Physical assault injuries | Under treatment in hospital |
| Aleya Khatun Hira | Lecturer | Beating and trauma | Admitted to hospital |
| Rezaul Karim Alam | Teacher | Injured | Receiving primary care |
| Unidentified | Staff member | Assault injuries | Stable |
| Unidentified | Staff member | Injured | Stable |
Lecturer Aleya Khatun Hira alleged that a group had been pressuring the college administration for a prolonged period, reportedly making demands related to financial matters. She claimed she was attacked after taking a position aligned with the administration.
However, local political figure Akbar Ali presented a different account, claiming that their delegation had visited the college to seek clarification on alleged financial irregularities. He further stated that they were first attacked by teachers, which subsequently led to a clash.
Principal Abdul Razzaq stated that since assuming office four months ago, he has faced repeated pressure from various groups, including alleged demands for money. He suggested that the refusal to comply with such demands may have contributed to the escalation of tensions.
Police from Durgapur police station confirmed that officers were present at the scene due to ongoing examinations but said a group of individuals forcibly entered the premises and carried out the attack and vandalism. Authorities have stated that legal action will be taken once formal complaints are lodged.
The incident has sparked widespread local concern, raising serious questions about campus security, administrative autonomy, and the influence of political groups within educational institutions.