Rajshahi University Student Union Vetoes All Programs Over Journalist Threats
Three journalist organizations at Rajshahi University have announced a boycott of all programs organized by the Rajshahi University Central Student Union (Raksu). This action is a protest against controversial remarks made by Raksu's Vice President (VP), Mostakur Rahman Jahid, targeting journalists. The organizations, including the Rajshahi University Journalists Association (RUJA), Rajshahi University Press Club, and Rajshahi University Reporters Unity (RUR), issued a joint statement on Wednesday afternoon. They are demanding an unconditional apology from the VP within 24 hours, threatening further action if their demand is not met.
The controversy arose following an incident at the library, which involved an attack after an earlier event at the Proctor's office. During a Raksu-organized press conference addressing these events, VP Jahid accused journalists of bias towards the banned student organization Chhatra League, without providing specific evidence. He allegedly threatened journalists, stating he would gather them and take action, while also accusing them of showing excessive sympathy for the Chhatra League.
Journalist leaders deemed the VP's statements deeply insulting and an obstruction to independent journalism within the university. They emphasized that student union representatives cannot act as law enforcement agencies. The boycott will continue until a public, unconditional apology is issued. The Rajshahi Television Journalists Association (RTJA) also expressed concern over the threats, calling for a thorough investigation by the university administration and hoping for an explanation from VP Jahid.
The incident highlights a critical tension between student governance bodies and the press, particularly in academic institutions. Raksu's VP's alleged threats and accusations against journalists, if substantiated, represent a potential overreach of authority and an attempt to control the narrative surrounding campus events. Such actions can stifle independent reporting, which is crucial for transparency and accountability within any organization, including student unions. The journalists' collective response, including the threat of broader action, signals a strong commitment to press freedom. Moving forward, universities must establish clear protocols for addressing journalistic coverage and resolving disputes, ensuring that student leaders operate within legal and ethical boundaries, and that journalists can perform their duties without fear of reprisal. This situation underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing institutional authority with the public's right to information in the digital age, where the rapid dissemination of information can amplify both constructive dialogue and potential conflict.
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