DU pro-BNP teachers' group demands government resignation

Pro-BNP teachers' organization of Dhaka University (DU), Sada Dal, held a press conference amidst the ongoing student movement and demanded the government to resign. 

They placed a total of 11 demands at the press conference which took place at the Dhaka University Club at 12pm on Tuesday.  

Prof Lutfar Rahman, the convener of Sada Dal, read out a written statement. 

The event was attended by Joint Convener Prof Siddiqur Rahman Khan, Prof Abdus Salam, Treasurer Prof Abul Kalam Sarker, and Publication Secretary Saifuddin Ahmed, among others.

In the written statement, Prof Lutfar Rahman highlighted Dhaka University's historic role in the struggle against undemocratic forces, from the country's liberation struggle to post-independence movements. 

He expressed disappointment that the current teachers' association, led by pro-government teachers for over a decade, no longer reflects the opinions and expectations of the academic community, as seen in recent protests by teachers and students.

He criticized the government for destroying the democratic system, curtailing voting rights, and establishing authoritarian rule, which he claimed obstructed freedom of speech and expression. He accused the government of fostering corruption and creating a wealthy class, while the majority of the population struggles with daily life. He also expressed concern over the government's attempts to discredit the student movement through conspiracy theories and false narratives.

The 11-point demand are:  

1. Resignation of the Dhaka University administration for failing to protect students from attacks  
2. Immediate reopening of all educational institutions, including Dhaka University  
3. Complete withdrawal of curfew and normalization of public life
4. Arranging an international investigation under the United Nations' supervision to identify and prosecute law enforcement and pro-government terrorists involved in killing hundreds, including students
5. Provision of compensation to the families of the deceased and proper treatment for the injured
6. Identification and prosecution of the actual perpetrators
7. Release of anti-discrimination student movement coordinators from DB custody and immediate release of all arrested students  
8. Withdrawal of all cases against students and cessation of arrests and harassment.  
9. Acceptance of the recent eight-point demand from the anti-discrimination student movement to resolve the crisis
10. Cessation of torture against opposition party members and professionals without investigation and the immediate release of detainees.  
11. Resignation of the government, in response to public demand, and the establishment of a people-led government through neutral elections