NSTU students demand expulsion of university official over indecent remarks

Female students of Noakhali Science and Technology University (NSTU) have demanded the expulsion of university officer Md Abdul Kader Rahman for making indecent and derogatory remarks about female students on social media.

The students staged a human chain in front of the university’s administrative building at 1:00pm on Thursday, calling for the immediate dismissal of the official. 

Both male and female students from various departments joined the protest.

During the demonstration, the protesters urged the university administration to ensure that the official publicly apologises for his comments, to launch an administrative inquiry, and to take necessary legal action against him. 

They also demanded his termination for insulting and morally harassing female students.

According to the protesters, on 15 October, the university officer made an offensive comment — ‘No more secret affairs or extramarital relations. This time, recognition as a wife’ — on a Facebook post from the official page of the NSTU Journalists’ Association concerning a female students’ organisation.

“The remark not only undermines the personal dignity and sense of security of female students, but also reflects a collective misogynistic and indecent attitude,” the students said in a joint statement. 

“Such behaviour from an administrative official is not only inappropriate but also violates university regulations, professional ethics, and the constitutional values of gender equality,” the statement said.

Speaking at the event, student Tanjina Akter Rimi said, “Such sexually suggestive, insulting and obscene comments about female students cannot be considered freedom of expression. 

“It is a form of harassment, character assassination and psychological abuse. This kind of behaviour poses a serious threat to maintaining a safe, respectful and learning-friendly environment at the university.”

Another student, Rahiqum Makhtum, said, “We strongly condemn the indecent remarks made by the NSTU officer and we urge the authorities to take prompt and appropriate action to ensure justice.”

Student Nishad Ahmed Jibon said, “A university official has publicly slut-shamed our students. Personally, I do not support campus politics, but everyone has the right to express their ideology.

“Whether male or female, no one should face harassment or humiliation for expressing their views. The administration must take immediate action to ensure this never happens again.”

Meanwhile, Mehedi Hasan, a student from the 15th batch, said, “Bangladesh is working towards achieving the SDG 2030 targets, focusing on women’s empowerment. Yet, it is unfortunate that such hateful remarks against female students are being made in a university setting.”

He continued, “The official has already violated administrative norms, but we have not seen any action from the authorities. We call upon the administration to take lawful measures against him without delay.”