DU Correspondent

Dhaka University Mourning Day was observed on Tuesday through various programmes.

On this occasion, Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan led the students-teachers-officers-employees of the university and visited Jagannath Hall memorial at 7:30 am on Tuesday with a condolence rally and laid wreaths.

Later, a discussion meeting was held under the chairmanship of DU VC Prof Dr Niaz Ahmad Khan. Pro-Vice Chancellor (Admin) Prof Dr. Saima Haque Bidisha, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Education) Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed, treasurer professor. M. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Principal of Jagannath Hall Debashish Pal, former Principal Prof. Dr. Mihir Lal Saha and Professor Jagadish Chandra Shukladas, Jagannath Hall Alumni Association General Secretary Nibas Chandra Majhi, Dhaka University Officers Association, Class III Employees Association, Technical Employees Association and Class IV Employees Union spoke. Registrar Munsi Shams Uddin Ahmed performed the function.

Deans of various faculties, principals of various halls, teachers, officers, employees and alumni were present.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmad Khan remembered the victims with a humble heart and said that everyone should play a responsible role from their respective positions to prevent the recurrence of the tragic accident of October 15. We take the safety of members of the university family very seriously. He mentioned that the present administration will identify the dangerous buildings of Dhaka University and take initiatives for renovation.

Another lesson from the Jagannath Hall disaster is unity, he said. After the Jagannath Hall accident, people from all over the country, regardless of religion, caste, caste, came forward for help. At that time people became a family. He called upon all the people to be united even in the current special situation of the country.

On the occasion of the day, black flags are hoisted in all halls, hostels and main buildings of the university, the university flag is kept at half mast and black badges are worn. Besides, oil paintings of the deceased and related items are displayed. Prayer meetings of Hindus, Buddhists and Christians were held in Jagannath Hall premises to pray for the souls of the deceased. Prayers will be offered today in all mosques except Ashar University Central Mosque Masjidul Jamia to pray for the peace of the souls of the deceased.

It is to be noted that the day is observed every year in memory of the victims of the tragic accident that took place at Jagannath Hall on the night of October 15, 1985.

A total of 40 people including 26 students, 14 guests and staff were killed in the accident and numerous students and guests were injured.