Ragging incident at PSTU hospitalizes 3 students, 7 expelled

Following the incident, the university expelled seven accused students.  

The victims were admitted to Barishal Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital for advanced treatment.  

The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, at M. Keramat Ali Hall, where first-year undergraduate students (2023�24 session) were subjected to abusive ragging.  

According to student accounts, the ordeal began at midnight when senior students confiscated the freshmen's phones and forced them into various humiliating and physically strenuous activities. The victims reported being forced to perform repeated squats, endure abusive language, and breathe in cigarette smoke, creating a distressing environment. Some were even made to hang from windows while others faced physical and mental abuse.  

Around 2:30 AM, the hall provost, Professor Dr. Abdullah Al Mamun, and assistant proctor, Md. Abdur Rahim, intervened after being informed of the incident. They caught two students red-handed and identified four others involved in the ragging.  

The university administration responded swiftly by expelling seven students from the 2022�23 session and launching a formal investigation.  

When asked about the administration�s failure to prevent such incidents, PSTU proctor Professor Abul Bashar Khan stated, "This situation is unacceptable. We will take the strictest measures against those involved and enhance our vigilance to prevent future occurrences. Cooperation from all stakeholders is essential to maintaining a safe campus environment."  

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Kazi Rafiqul Islam visited the hospitalized students on Sunday morning to ensure their medical care and expressed his deep concern over the incident.  

"The university has immediately expelled seven accused students from the hall. A disciplinary board meeting has been held, and a five-member investigation committee has been formed to look into the matter. Based on their report, we will take further action, including academic penalties," said the Vice-Chancellor.  

The university administration reiterated its commitment to eradicating ragging and fostering a safe and respectful academic environment for all students.