Editorial
JU VC should step down
No moral authority to lead the 'varsity
The recent developments in Jahangirnagar University are a shocking reminder of how politicisation in universities can bring about a menacing stalemate in academic activities, taking a heavy toll on the general students' learning process. After several days of demonstrations by both anti- and pro-VC teachers and students' groups, the situation took a turn for the worse with some students and two teachers launching into a fast-unto-death resolve. But a delegation of striking teachers in the meanwhile met the prime minister and called off their strike on her assurance, but the students have not relented. They demand the incumbent vice chancellor's resignation for his alleged involvement with various irregularities.
The BCL cadres, as if to stoke the fire, attacked the anti-VC teachers and students while chanting pro-VC slogans. This was not only uncalled for but also a proof of the VC's direct link with a students' party that has been notoriously responsible for numerous incidents of violence on the campus.
We think the VC has lost his credibility along with his moral authority. A VC's position is grounded not only on his being appointed to the high office, but also on his moral standing. A VC must be a reverential persona commanding respect from the whole body of teachers and students. He may entertain the idea that he has the support of the BCL cadres to continue in his position which in fact is all the more reason why he should be resigning for denigrating his position as a partisan VC. His continuity as the custodian of the one of the highest seats of the learning can only jeopardise the functioning of the university. His position is no more tenable.
All things considered, we expect the vice chancellor to resign. If he lacks sense of dignity, then we are forced to demand his immediate removal in order to protect the interest of general students, save the university's reputation and allow it to function as a major educational institution of learning and research. We also expect the government's instant intervention so that a healthy environment of education is restored sooner rather than later. A university cannot be held hostage to one man's ego.
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