Dhaka, Aug 25 (V7N) – Controversy has erupted over the allocation of only eight polling centers for more than 40,000 students in the upcoming Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) election. The Protirodh Parishad panel, a participating student alliance, has strongly objected to this arrangement and demanded additional polling stations closer to academic buildings to ensure smooth and fair voting.
 
Speaking at a press conference in front of the Madhur Canteen on Sunday, Assistant General Secretary (AGS) candidate Zabir Ahmed Jubel said the number of polling centers is grossly insufficient for such a large student population. “With only eight centers for 40,000 voters, it will be practically impossible to conduct a fair and manageable election,” he said. “More centers must be set up near academic areas to ensure accessibility and transparency.”
 
Jubel also raised concerns about political bias and past incidents of repression. “We will formally request the Election Commission to bar those who were involved in political violence and suppression of dissenting voices during the authoritarian rule of the Hasina regime,” he said. He warned that unresolved concerns around the electoral process could jeopardize the integrity of the vote.
 
The panel submitted a memorandum to the Chief Returning Officer after the press conference, detailing their demands and seeking immediate action. Among the demands was a call to suspend all university examinations at least a week prior to election day to allow students to participate without academic pressure.
 
In a separate press conference, Sadiq Kayem, the Vice President candidate from the Shibir-backed 'Oikkyoboddho Chatro Jot' panel, echoed the demand to postpone exams during the election period. He emphasized that academic activities should not interfere with students’ fundamental right to vote.
 
Meanwhile, the Sammilito Chatro Oikya alliance announced a partial three-member panel to contest in the DUCSU election. Their announcement was also made from the historic Madhur Canteen, further highlighting the growing student engagement in the lead-up to the vote.
 
As election day approaches, tensions and expectations are mounting on campus, with students calling for a more inclusive, accessible, and impartial electoral process.