Although the Barishal University (BU) authorities officially imposed a ban on student politics a year ago, campus activities suggest the prohibition exists only on paper.

General students alleged that student wings of various political parties are openly engaging in political programmes under the administration’s watch, while the long-standing demand for a central students’ union election remains unmet.

In recent months, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD), the student wing of the BNP, has distributed leaflets outlining the party’s 31-point state reform plan, organised discussions marking Martyred Intellectuals Day, and held rallies and protests on Victory Day.

Similarly, Islami Chhatra Shibir (ICS), the student front of Jamaat-e-Islami, organised a bicycle rally, tree plantation, milad mahfil, and Eid-ul-Azha feast on August 6. The Democratic Student Council on July 22 held a referendum on holding a students’ union election. Islami Andolan Bangladesh has also arranged multiple programmes with central leaders at BU’s TSC.

The Bangladesh Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangsad (Bagchhas), student wing of the National Citizens’ Party, is yet to form a committee but its aspiring leaders have begun activities, including placing a large party banner at the university’s third gate.

Students have expressed frustration over the administration’s inaction. “How are student organisations conducting political activities when politics is banned? The administration needs to clarify its position,” said Asif Billah, a resident of Sher-e-Bangla Hall.

University Debate Society president Mehedi Hasan Sohag said political activities by Chhatra Shibir, Chhatra Dal and the Democratic Student Council continue openly. “This goes against the August 11, 2024 announcement. The administration must act immediately,” he added.

Proctor Dr Rahat Hossain Faisal said the ban was imposed in response to student demands and there was “no scope” for political activities. “The administration will investigate and take action against those holding political programmes,” he said.

However, Reza Sharif, former president of BU Chhatra Dal, defended student politics, claiming all organisations were conducting “healthy political practices” to safeguard student rights.

Bangladesh Democratic Students’ Council leader Raju Rahman accused the administration of “pretending not to notice” ongoing political activities. “If they want politics back on campus, they should announce it openly. This hide-and-seek has no point,” he said.

Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Toufiq Alam said action would be taken if the ban was violated but declined to comment further.