Rajshahi:A case has been filed concerning allegations that Rajshahi Medical University (RMU) Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr. Md Jawadul Haque and his personal secretary, Nazmul Hossain, were coerced at gunpoint to sign resignation letters.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Nazmul Hossain lodged the complaint with the Rajpara police station in Rajshahi city, implicating 50-60 unidentified individuals. In connection with the case, Abdus Salam, vice-president of Rajpara thana BNP, was arrested from his home in the Paramedical area.
Rajshahi Metropolitan Police spokesperson Deputy Commissioner Gaziur Rahman stated that the case includes charges of forced resignation, obstruction of government duties, intimidation, physical assault, and looting of government property. The police are reviewing video footage to identify additional suspects following Salam's arrest.
In response, university officials and staff formed a human chain on Wednesday, protesting the alleged mistreatment and threats against the VC. The atmosphere at the university remains tense, with staff reporting insecurity and an inability to perform their duties effectively.
The incident reportedly involved BNP and Krishak Dal activists entering the VC's office, demanding his resignation, and accusing him of favoritism in contract awards. The VC, Dr. Jawadul Haque, described being humiliated and threatened before being forcibly removed from his office. He alleged that his personal secretary was also assaulted and subjected to harassment, with office equipment being confiscated.
Efforts to contact Sharafuzzaman Shamim, convener of the Rajshahi city unit of Krishak Dal, for comments were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, medical professionals held a protest at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, demanding accountability for the incident.