Teachers, students, parents, and local residents of Arani Degree College in Bagha Upazila, Rajshahi, held a protest march and human chain on Thursday, October 30, demanding the resignation of the college’s acting principal, Nasrin Akter, over allegations of misconduct, autocratic behavior, and political interference.
The protest began around 11:30 a.m. and included a march around Arani Bazar, concluding with a human chain at Tal Tala Mor.
Former Vice-President of the District Volunteer League, Mahidul Islam Jewel, former Acting General Secretary Rashedul Haque, newly elected members of the college managing committee, including Babul Islam, Abdur Rashid, and Shamsul Islam, attended the demonstration.
Speaking at the event, Mahidul Islam Jewel said, “The acting principal is trying to appoint her own candidate as president by exercising political influence instead of forming a full committee with newly elected members and teacher representatives. We have organized this protest and human chain against her autocratic behavior.”
Newly elected member Babul Islam added, “Her behavior as the head of the institution is unethical and unacceptable. We demand her immediate removal to restore a proper educational environment at the college.”
Acting Principal Nasrin Akter responded by claiming, “There were irregularities in the voting process, which we have reported to the Upazila Executive Officer.”
Upazila Executive Officer and college president Shammi Akter said that the process of forming a full committee with elected members and teacher representatives is ongoing. “Some local individuals have filed written complaints alleging voting irregularities and incomplete academic certificates of the presidential candidate. The matter will be investigated, and appropriate action will be taken,” she added.
