VC expresses sorrow as teacher dies on JUCSU election duty

A colleague says Jannatul Ferdous was brought in despite illness

Jahangirnagar University Vice-Chancellor (VC) Prof Muhammad Kamruzzaman has expressed sorrow over the death of Assistant Prof Jannatul Ferdous, who died while on duty during the JUCSU vote count.

According to a university media statement issued on Friday evening, authorities reported that the Fine Arts faculty member died in the morning following sudden cardiac arrest.

In his condolence message, the VC said the early death of Jannatul is a significant loss to her department and family. “Her absence is irreplaceable. She was known to all for her gentle nature and courteous behaviour.”

He extended sympathy to her family and prayed for the peace of her soul.

Shamim Reza, chairman of the Fine Arts department, said Jannatul returned home around 8pm on Thursday after completing her duties at Pritilata Hall during the JUCSU and hall elections.

“She returned on Friday morning around 8.15am for vote counting. As she approached the Election Commission office on the third floor, she collapsed while entering through the door. She was quickly taken to a hospital in Savar, where doctors declared her dead,” he said.

However, her colleague, Sultana Akter, returning officer for Nawab Faizunnesa Hall, said on Friday afternoon: “I believe my colleague Jannatul Ferdous died due to the Election Commission’s mismanagement. I want a proper investigation. The university must provide compensation. The administration must take responsibility for this death.”

She claimed that Jannatul was brought in from home by guards despite being unwell.

Following funeral prayers held at 2pm on the university’s central field, Jannatul was taken by ambulance to her family home in Pabna for burial.