JU students hold silent march, candlelight vigil against sexual violence

A group of students at Jahangirnagar University (JU) held a silent march and candlelight vigil on Sunday night, marking 'Resistance to Killers and Rapists Day' and demanding justice for victims of sexual violence.

Organised by the Jahangirnagar Cultural Alliance, the programme began around 10pm with a silent procession from the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC). The march ended at the Central Shaheed Minar, where participants lit candles, held a brief rally and performed protest songs.

Speaking at the rally, the alliance's president, Prama Raha, said the day commemorates the 1999 student movement against ‘notorious’ rapist Jasim Uddin Manik, describing it as a landmark chapter in the university's history.

"Twenty-seven years have passed since that historic movement. The day reminds us of resistance and the courage to stand against injustice," she said.

Raha alleged that incidents of harassment continue on campus and criticised the university administration for failing to take effective action.

"Our silent march is not a symbol of silence, but of the anger and resistance we carry within us. We believe this protest will send a message against rapists, their collaborators and those who stand with injustice," she added.

General Secretary of the alliance Semonti Rodoshi said the 1999 movement had secured justice through united student action, but alleged that more recent incidents of harassment had remained unresolved despite protests.

She urged students to continue raising their voices through cultural activism to ensure accountability.

History department student Lamisha Zaman said the 1999 movement had established JU as a symbol of resistance against sexual violence.

"Even after 27 years, allegations of rape, harassment and impunity persist on campus. Through this silent march and candlelight vigil, we reaffirm our commitment to stand against all forms of injustice, sexual violence and oppression through cultural resistance," she said.