Dhaka University rejects allegations of rigging in DUCSU polls

The Dhaka University authorities have rejected the allegations of rigging and other irregularities in the recently-held Dhaka University Central Students' Union polls.

News Deskbdnews24.com
Published : 16 March 2019, 01:41 PM
Updated : 16 March 2019, 01:41 PM

They also urged all to come up with 'evidence' of irregularities, if any, according to a statement issued by the university on Saturday.

Over 43,000 students will be able to vote for the Dhaka University Central Students Union (DUCSU) and hall council posts after a 28 year gap. Long lines of voters were seen in front of the polling centres at Dhaka University long before they opened at 8 am. Photo: Abdullah Al Momin

Confusing statements and opinions were circulated in the media over the DUCSU polls held on Mar 11 and attracted attention from the DU authorities, it said.

Students discovered sacks of marked ballots for the Hall Council elections before the DUCSU polls opened at Bangladesh-Kuwait Maitree Hall on Monday, leading to protests. A student shows the marked ballot paper to the camera. Photo: Mostafigur Rahman

"Without any verification from the authorities concerned, a vested quarter was out to misguide people by giving concocted explanations about the polls for political gain,” the DU said.

"If there is any proof of irregularities, dishonesty and rigging, the university authorities will take measures after a proper investigation," it said.  

Dhaka University students became agitated after finding a trunk full of paper ballots for the DUCSU polls at a room at Ruqayyah Hall on Monday. Photo: Abdullah Al Momin

Admitting the fact that there were some "unintentional errors" in conducting the election, the university said the experience gained from the polls provided food for thought.

The DUCSU election, held after 28 years, was boycotted by all major panels, except the Bangladesh Chhatra League, over allegations of rigging.