Engineering students have declared a “complete shutdown” at all engineering universities in Bangladesh on Thursday (August 28). However, they have decided not to block Shahbagh in order to avoid public suffering.
The announcement was made on Wednesday (August 27) evening by Sakibul Haque Lipu, general secretary of the “Engineers’ Rights Movement.” He stated that all classes and exams will remain suspended on Thursday, and further programs will be announced at a press conference at the Engineers Institute in the evening.
Lipu alleged that none of the students’ three-point demands have been met so far. He added that policymakers are not even aware of the issues raised by the movement. A committee consisting of four advisers and representatives of engineers will also include members nominated by the students.
Meanwhile, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Md. Sajjat Ali visited Shahbagh on Wednesday night, expressed regret to the students, and announced that an investigation committee would be formed on Thursday.
Earlier, environmental adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and railway adviser Fawzul Kabir Khan held a meeting with the protesting students. After the meeting, Fawzul Kabir Khan said the clash with police was “unexpected.” He stressed that since the students’ demands are related to jobs and recruitment, all relevant stakeholders must be consulted before making decisions.
He further added, “Demands and discussions will continue. But frequent blockades at Shahbagh or marches toward the Jamuna River cannot be acceptable. Our doors remain open for the students, and communication will continue.”
