Rajshahi, Sept 17 (V7N) – Students and political organizations are urging the revival of student council elections at Rajshahi College, citing the absence of democratic representation for decades despite the institution’s nearly 150-year history.
 
Once a hub for nurturing future leaders, Rajshahi College currently enrolls around 30,000 students who lack a platform to voice concerns, address grievances, or contribute to campus governance. The absence of elected student representatives has left administration making unilateral decisions, often overlooking students’ needs, according to faculty and students.
 
Students highlight issues including inadequate library management, toilet shortages, restricted cultural programs, and limited sports activities. Sociology student Sadia Akter noted, “Without a council, no one represents our problems. An elected body would ensure our voices are heard.” Statistics student Mehjabin Rahman added, “Free and fair elections at the college level are possible if the administration cooperates. Democratic practice should not be limited to universities.”
 
Political groups, including Rajshahi College Chhatra Dal and Chhatra Shibir, have called for immediate elections. Khalid bin Walid Abir, convener of the college Chhatra Dal unit, emphasized the need for transparent, participatory elections to prevent malpractice seen in other institutions.
 
College authorities acknowledge the students’ demands but cite political violence as a major challenge. Rajshahi College Principal Professor Md. Zuhur Ali said, “Student council elections are vital for developing future leaders. However, we are not planning elections at this moment. Any progress will depend on government directives, possibly after the national elections.”
 
Students believe that restoring student council elections will revive leadership development, encourage participatory politics, and ensure better campus governance, continuing a tradition that has historically produced notable leaders in Bangladesh.
 
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