Allegations of ‘guestroom’ harassment have surfaced at Dhaka University’s (DU) Dr Qudrat-E-Khuda Hostel, with freshers claiming they were subjected to late-night sessions under the pretext of learning discipline and “manners.”
Students from the Institute of Leather Engineering and Technology said the sessions took place over the past four days, where they were reportedly held in rooms 1003, 1004 and at times the dining hall, from around 11:30 PM until as late as 2:30 AM.
Several 43rd-batch students, including Al Mosaddek, Khalid Abdullah, Mohammad Anas, Sabik Islam, Ibrahim and Monirul, have been accused of organising the sessions. Victims described the experience as mentally distressing, alleging verbal abuse and intimidation during the gatherings.
One new student, speaking anonymously, described the experience as extreme mental harassment, noting that Mosaddek allegedly made derogatory remarks about female classmates, referring to them as ‘food for seniors’.
Some of the accused, however, denied the allegations. Ibrahim described the sessions as informal introductory interactions, while Anas said he was not present, citing prior commitments.
Witnesses also reported the presence of senior students and individuals identifying themselves with Jatiotabadi Chhatra Dal, who allegedly instructed juniors to comply with senior directives.
The complaint has raised fresh concerns about the persistence of ‘guestroom culture’, a practice historically associated with coercion and abuse in university residential halls, despite expectations of its decline following the political changes in August 2024.
Zahurul Huq Hall Union Vice-president (VP) Md Ahsan Habib Imroz said this matter would be brought to the attention of the university’s vice-chancellor.
Hostel warden Dr Md Farhad Ali said he was not aware of the specific incidents but assured that an investigation would be conducted, adding that any form of harassment would not be tolerated.
NRE/AM
