Jagannath University Must Play Role in Protecting Democracy: Abdus Salam

Jagannath University must continue its historic role in safeguarding democracy and addressing social challenges, Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Md Abdus Salam has said.

He made remarks Sunday afternoon while inaugurating renovated central auditorium of Jagannath University on university campus.

Abdus Salam attended programme as chief guest, while Dhaka-7 lawmaker Hamidur Rahman was present as special guest. JnU Vice-Chancellor Prof Md Rezaul Karim chaired event.

JnU Must Uphold Its Historic Role in Protecting Democracy'

In his speech, Abdus Salam said universities have crucial responsibility to contribute to society during periods of social deterioration and national challenges.

"From Language Movement to mass uprising of 2024, Jagannath University has played important historical role. University must continue this legacy and play meaningful role in protecting democracy in future," he said.

He stressed importance of political stability and said elected government should be replaced through elected government.

"Everyone needs to remain patient and wait until national election. Otherwise, country may fall further behind," he said.

Referring to challenges faced by government after assuming office, DSCC administrator said country had been experiencing difficulties in sectors including gas, electricity and water.

He said government had undertaken various initiatives to address those challenges despite outbreak of war in Middle East soon after it took charge.

Encouraging greater use of solar power, Abdus Salam said government would extend cooperation in this sector and facilitate access to bank loans.

On political programmes, he said opposition parties have right to criticise government, but political statements and programmes must be conducted responsibly.

"No activity should be carried out in a way that could create an opportunity for fascism to return to country," he said.

"Government needs time. We have to move country forward by bringing everyone together," he added.

DSCC Assures Support for Improving Area Around JnU

Abdus Salam assured university authorities of cooperation in keeping area in front of Jagannath University clean, attractive and well-maintained.

He also stressed importance of planting trees, improving roads and raising public awareness to protect environment of Old Dhaka.

He further underscored need to restore Buriganga River to its former condition.

MP Proposes Eight-Storey Building

Speaking as special guest, Dhaka-7 MP Hamidur Rahman called for taking various initiatives to accelerate infrastructural development of Jagannath University.

He proposed that unused plot currently associated with banking facilities be allocated for university purposes.

He also suggested constructing eight-storey building there to meet growing needs of students.

Vice-Chancellor Raises Three Key Demands

In his presidential address, JnU vice-chancellor sought cooperation from relevant authorities to preserve university's beauty, heritage and academic environment.

He called for removal of illegal shops and structures from area in front of university.

He also urged authorities to ensure legal ownership of Dhupkhola Field in favour of Jagannath University so that students can have greater access to sports facilities.

Vice-chancellor thanked DSCC for completing long-pending renovation of university's central auditorium.

Calling for development of cultural hub centred around Old Dhaka, he said initiative should be taken to establish "Bishwajit Chattar" at Jagannath University to further expand cultural activities on campus.

Vice-chancellor's key demands included removal of illegal structures and beautification of area in front of university, securing Dhupkhola Field for students' sporting activities, and developing cultural zone centred around Old Dhaka.

Milad and Dua Mark First Death Anniversary of JnU Chhatra Dal Leader

Following inauguration programme, milad and dua mahfil was held to mark first death anniversary of Hasibur Rahman, a leader of JnU unit of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal.

Students, teachers, Chhatra Dal activists and other members of university community attended programme.

Participants prayed for eternal peace and salvation of departed soul of Hasibur Rahman.