The identification of the attackers, belonging to the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) on the quota reform protesters on Dhaka University campus on July 15 in 2024 that triggered the July uprising, is expected to be completed by January 15.
Confirmed by Dr Kazi Mahfuzul Haque, Convener of the Investigation Committee and a DU faculty members, said that so far more than 150 students associated with BCL have been accused.
On inquiry made about the entire exercise, he told the Daily Observer, "At first, we sent letters out to all the halls and departments. There were also people who came to testify before the committee, and we received very valuable information from them. Next, we will set up some places where students can submit evidence-based complaints directly to us, through a set of banners. This is a step-by-step process of a very thorough investigation."
In response to concerns regarding some innocent students being accused by the mob, Dr Haque said, "As soon as we collect preliminary data, we will restrict ourselves to making a comprehensive list based on clear evidence that will be validated with departmental and hall records. Any innocent student included by mistake at this stage would be dropped. Unfortunately, though, already there have been complaints about students being subjected to mob fury."
He added that allegations against more than 150 students have been received. This work takes time and needs patience. We really want to ensure that none suffer from undue harassment by the mob.
Particularly, the committee also pays attention to the members of the mob, which includes students who have missed classes or examinations due to mob allegations.
DU proctor, Saifuddin Ahmed said the committee was initially required to complete the assignment in a month, but they have requested an extension to verify all the evidence collected. Another problem is that some complainants have not turned up to record their testimonies. Therefore, they need more space to avoid a faulty investigation.
The committee is chaired by Dr Kazi Mahfuzul Haque, a faculty member at the Faculty of Law. Other members are Prof Dr Mohammad Ikramul Haque, Acting Dean, Faculty of Law, Dr Nadia Nawaz Rimi, Professor, Management Department, Dr Mohammad Almojadded Al-Fesani, Professor, Department of Botany, Prof Dr Nasrin Sultana, Provost of Shamsun Nahar Hall and Assistant Proctor Mrs Shehrin Amin Bhuiyan.
The identification process aims at an equitable and fully encompassing resolution of the issue.
