Shibir activist accused of harassing former DU students at Shahidullah Hall

An activist of the Dhaka University (DU) unit of Islami Chhatra Shibir has been accused of harassing a group of former students of the university at Dr Muhammad Shahidullah Hall in an apparent act of "moral policing", sparking outrage on campus.

The accused was identified as Saju Mia, a 'Sathi'-level activist of DU unit Chhatra Shibir.

The incident took place on Friday night when six people, including former DU students and a married couple, visited the hall to watch the World Cup football match between France and Norway.

According to the victims, they entered the hall legally after signing the visitors' register at the invitation of a resident student. While waiting in the hall playground before the match, they were questioned by a group of students about the presence of a woman inside the men's hall.

The victims alleged that Saju Mia, social services secretary of the hall union, asked them to leave despite being informed that the woman was a DU alumna and the wife of one of the visitors. They further alleged that he threatened to take their photographs and share them in the hall's online groups.

The group eventually left the premises, although organisers had announced that all DU students were welcome to watch the match. The organisers later clarified that Saju was not a member of the organising committee.

The hall union's general secretary expressed regret over the incident and advised the victims to file a formal complaint.

The incident drew widespread criticism on social media, with many students condemning what they described as misogynistic behaviour and vigilantism.

Saju Mia denied the harassment allegations, claiming he had become the target of an "online mob" and political rivals from Chhatra Dal.

"Some brothers and sisters were chatting on the field around midnight. After receiving complaints from students, we asked them to leave with the help of hall staff. If that sister can say I exchanged even a single word with her, I am willing to apologise publicly," he said.

Asked about Saju's political affiliation, DU unit Chhatra Shibir President Mohiuddin Khan said Saju was not a leader of the organisation but a supporter.

"We will verify his involvement with the organisation and take necessary action if required," he said.

The victims have submitted a written complaint to the hall administration seeking action.

DU Proctor Israfil Ratan said the university will not tolerate vigilantism.

"Students cannot harass anyone in the name of policing. If there is any complaint, they should inform the proctor's office, hall administration or the relevant authorities," he said, adding that action will be taken if a formal complaint is received by the proctor's office.