Jagannath University (JnU) students have warned of launching stringent programmes if their demand for the implementation of a supplementary grant is not met.
The warning was issued during a press conference held at the base of the university’s Bhasha Shahid Rafiq Bhaban on Wednesday.
Addressing the press conference, AKM Rakib, president of the JnU unit of Chatra Odhikar Parishad, issued an ultimatum to the vice-chancellor, stating that a final decision regarding the supplementary grant must be reached before the VC departs for his scheduled trip to the United States.
Rakib warned that students would not allow the vice-chancellor to leave unless the issue is resolved.
The student leader highlighted that although work on the university’s second campus began in 2018, there has been no visible progress. Following intense student protests, the project was eventually handed over to the Army.
Previously, students conducted a “Long March to Yamuna” to demand a 70 per cent housing allowance until the completion of the second campus and two residential halls. They had returned to their academic activities after receiving assurances from the government.
However, Rakib alleged that the university administration is currently procrastinating on the implementation of the grant and is attempting to mislead students through representatives of the Jagannath University Central Student Union (Jnucsu).
According to the administration, the government is unable to provide the full amount at once and intends to release the funds in two or three instalments.
Rakib further noted that during discussions with the government, it was decided that the supplementary grant would be incorporated into the university budget and would continue until the housing crisis is fully resolved.
Despite this, the administration has yet to make a clear announcement regarding the matter. The students reiterated that they would announce even harsher programmes in the future if their demands remain unfulfilled.
The press conference was also attended by Sohan Pramanik, joint general secretary of Chatra Odhikar Parishad; Mahid Hossain, transport secretary of Jnucsu; Riyasal Rakib, Library and Seminar Secretary; and executive member Sadman Samya.
