Mah Alam, JU

Jahangirnagar University (JU) students are concerned for their safety following a surge in snatching incidents near the campus.

The issue resurfaced following Rashel Hossain, a student from the Zoology department, was severely stabbed in the waist by snatchers near the Mir Mosharraf Hossain Hall gate while returning from tuition.

Proctor Prof ASM Rashidul Alam and security officials promptly responded to the incident, rescuing Rashel and taking him to the university medical centre.

His condition was initially critical, but he has since been referred to Enam Medical College Hospital in Savar, where he is reportedly recovering well.

The rising number of snatching incidents, particularly near entry points to the campus along the Dhaka-Aricha highway, has alarmed both students and local residents.

Victims alleged that these incidents typically occur during early evening to late night, with some incidents even happening during midday.

Snatchers often escape into nearby jungles after jumping over walls, leaving victims feeling vulnerable and anxious.

Students have voiced their concerns over inadequate CCTV surveillance and poor lighting at key entry points, which they believe are contributing factors to the increasing crime rate.

The lack of effective security measures has made it difficult for authorities to track down offenders, further heightening fear within the university community.

In response to the escalating situation, students are calling for immediate improvements to the university’s security infrastructure. Their demands include enhanced lighting and CCTV coverage at vulnerable entry points, as well as stronger police patrolling, such as a permanent police box at the Mir Mosharraf Hossain Hall gate.

They have urged discussions with the Dairy Farm authority to raise the height of sidewalls to deter criminals.

A group of students organised a protest rally around 11:30 am in front of the new administrative building to voice their concerns and demand a safer campus.

‘I’ve come here five times to reiterate my demand. This time not for demand, but to defend my rights. The authority must be addressed in an effective manner,’ said Shakil Islam, a postgraduate student in the History department.

The rally highlighted not only the recent stabbing but also multiple incidents of sexual harassment attributed to security loopholes on and around campus.

In a proactive move, JU VC Prof Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan, along with Pro VCs, proctor, registrar and security officials, visited the site of Rashel's stabbing to assess the situation.

In light of the rising safety concerns, a high-level supervision and coordination committee has been formed, led by Pro VC (Administration) Prof Sohel Ahmed.

The committee is tasked with evaluating overall security measures and coordinating actions with relevant parties.

Pro -VC Prof Sohel Ahmed emphasised that improving lighting systems and increasing the number of CCTV cameras will be top priorities.

“We have directed relevant offices to set up a required number of security posts in areas near the Dhaka-Aricha Highway that are considered risk-prone. We are committed to enhancing safety for our students and community,” he said.