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Published : 09 Oct 2025, 12:24 AM
The decision to install air conditioning units in the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) building has sparked widespread criticism on social media.
Some have accused DUCSU leaders of bypassing the treasurer to pressure the university administration into allocating funds for the AC units, seeing the move as an example of unnecessary luxury.
The university's administration has been reluctant to take responsibility for the allocation, with various officials pointing fingers at each other.
The chief engineer of the university said the approval for the AC installation came from the pro-vice chancellor. However, the pro-VC claimed he had merely forwarded the file to the vice-chancellor, mentioning his routine duties.
Prof Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the treasurer, distanced himself from the decision, saying he was on leave and had no knowledge of the AC allocation.
According to the university's Chief Engineer Kazi Md Akram Hossain the administration approved the purchase of nine air conditioners on Sept 30, allocating a total of Tk 923,000.
Abdul Kader, who ran for vice-president in the DUCSU elections, slated the decision on Facebook, calling it an “unexpected luxury” from DUCSU leaders.
He criticised the lack of adherence to rules and the pressure tactics used to secure the allocation. He further questioned the legitimacy of the process and urged the VC to form a three-member committee to investigate any irregularities.
In response, the Pro-VC Prof Mamun Ahmed said: “I did not approve any funds. The file came to me and I forwarded it to the VC.”
Prof Jahangir, echoed this, saying he was “unaware of the decision” as he was on leave during the process.
Jabir Ahmed Jubel, a left-wing candidate for Assistant General Secretary in the DUCSU elections, said the total budget allocated for DUCSU this year was Tk 3 million.
He also raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the spending and the absence of an open tender process, accusing the administration of making decisions outside of proper procedures.
He added, “DUCSU leaders can do whatever they want with their own personal funds or sponsors, but their actions within DUCSU and Dhaka University must adhere to regulations.”
Chief Engineer Akram defended the decision, saying they were instructed by the administration to carry out the work quickly, which is why no tender was called.
Attempts to reach VC Prof Niaz Ahmed Khan for comment were unsuccessful, while his office failed to provide a statement.
DUCSU General Secretary SM Farhad claimed that the decision was solely made by the university administration, not the DUCSU leaders.
DUCSU elections were held on Sept 9, with candidates backed by the student wing of the Jamaat-e-Islami winning nine out of twelve positions, including VP, GS, and AGS, while independent candidates secured the remaining three posts.
