Shihab Uddin, IU Correspondent: The Islamic University (IU) administration is yet to make a final decision regarding 33 students accused of activities opposing the July-August 2024 mass uprising, even though the penalties of 19 teachers and 11 officials accused of the same offenses have already been waived. Even though the newly appointed Vice-Chancellor (VC), Professor Dr. A. K. M. Matinur Rahman, has assured that a satisfactory decision will be made soon after discussing the matter with all relevant university bodies.

The VC made these remarks on Monday (May 16) during his first official working day, responding to journalists` questions during a courtesy meeting with members of three active journalist associations on campus.

The VC said, “I do not know the details of why they were suspended or why their penalties were subsequently waived, as I was not involved in that process. The previous administration might have taken these decisions considering the welfare of the university. There could be flaws in their work, just as there could be in mine. However, considering the circumstances at that time, perhaps those decisions were necessary.”

Prof. Matinur Rahman added, “Since the matter concerning the teachers and officials has already been resolved, it is logical that a similar positive step could move forward regarding the students. I am not making any final statements right now. However, we have several university bodies; we will consult with them and definitely reach a satisfactory decision, InshaAllah.”

Notably, during the tenure of the interim government, 19 teachers and 11 officers-employees of Islamic University were temporarily suspended for their alleged roles against the July movement. Their penalties were waived, and they were reinstated into service during an emergency syndicate meeting held on March 18.
However, even though more than a month has passed since the reinstatement of the teachers and officials, the university administration has not taken any effective action regarding the 33 students—including leaders and activists of the campus unit of Bangladesh Chhatra League—who face expulsion and the cancellation of their academic certificates. Consequently, the academic lives of these students remain in deep uncertainty.