Editorial
We are at a loss for words
Proctor's assault on student unacceptable
Whatever may have been the circumstances surrounding incidents on Bangladesh Agricultural University campus on October 9, there is simply no way to excuse Protctor MA Salam's behaviour. Despite claims of self-defence, he was caught on camera delivering a punch no less to a female student. The incident will go down in the university's history as an embarrassment for the teachers' community. We are left horrified, more so since the gentleman in question continues to protest his innocence in the face of evidence to the contrary. Needless to say the uncivilised act has invited widespread condemnation of the teachers' community and beyond. It is true that the campus has seen agitation of a section of students protesting the university's decision to raise fees recently and expulsion of nine students for alleged bad behaviour - a decision that has been challenged in the High Court. And yes, there have been protests and sit-ins in front of administrative buildings. It the Proctor's job to diffuse the situation through negotiation, not inflame it by engaging in physical violence. It would seem that the violence that exists in our society has spread to infect those who are supposed to be the epitome of cultural values, norms and etiquette. It is little wonder that students in our country often betray their violent and irresponsible behaviour on and off campus. With teachers such as Professor Salam, how can we expect better behaviour from them?
In terms of investigating the issue, the Vice Chancellor has constituted a 3-member probe committee and has assured to mete out exemplary punishment to those responsible. It is imperative that a thorough investigation is done. We cannot stress enough on the committee coming to a decisive conclusion and that facts are brought to light. There is a culture of white-washing such occurrences but this must not happen, for it would shake public confidence in the institution which cannot be a good thing. Any assault is a punishable offence in the eyes of the law and that premise needs to be re-established so that we may be spared such humiliating episodes in the future.
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