RU also slaps 5:00pm bar on celebrations

The Rajshahi University authorities yesterday asked the students to conclude all the programmes celebrating Pahela Baishakh on the campus by 5:00pm today.

"The authority took the decision for the safety of teachers and students," said a circular signed by Proctor Prof Mujibul Hauqe Azad Khan.

Moreover, the female students were asked to return to their respective dormitories by that time after finishing Baishakh celebration.

The students, however, expressed their anger over restriction on movements around the campus after 5:00pm, alleging that the authorities were trying to avoid their responsibility to ensure security.

Abu Bakar Siddique, general secretary of RU Kendria Sangskritik Jote, said the authorities did so as they were in fear that they would fail to provide security after evening.

Tomasri Das, general secretary of Chhatra Federation of RU unit, said the decision was taken "whimsically", which went against the students' rights.

Abdulla Al Mamun, assistant professor of the English department, said it would be better if the students were allowed to celebrate after 5:00pm.

Prof Mujibul told The Daily Star that they directed by the home ministry to finish Boishakh programmes by 5:00pm.