The 2025 Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election has ended recently in controversy after Islami Chhatra Shibir (ICS), the student wing of Jamaat-e-Islami, secured a sweeping victory. While Shibir hailed the win as “historic,” rival panels and observers allege it was achieved through money, manipulation, and intimidation.

Intelligence sources in Bangladesh claim that Jamaat-e-Islami funneled nearly BDT 20 crore into Shibir’s election campaign. The money reportedly financed mobilisation, transportation, social media drives and direct voter influence.

Controversy deepened when Pakistan’s Jamaat-e-Islami became the first foreign body to congratulate ICS, fueling allegations of funding links to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).

Opposition student leaders claimed “lakhs of Taka were spent in every hall” to buy loyalty. Others accused Shibir of using muscle power and fear tactics, with unverified reports even suggesting stockpiles of weapons in student halls. The Dhaka University administration, however, dismissed these as “rumors.”

A historic first for Shibir

For the first time in Dhaka University’s history—an institution known for its secular role in nationalist movements before and after 1971—a Jamaat-backed force has captured the DUCSU leadership.

Shibir’s success was attributed to its disciplined organisation, united front, and rivals’ weaknesses. The Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) faltered with internal divisions and weak candidates, while Shibir projected itself as a “clean alternative” and drew sympathy by invoking its persecution under the former Awami League government.

Accusations of bias and election irregularities

Rival panels alleged rigging and administrative bias during the polls. Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Niaz Mahmud Khan, accused of being a former Shibir activist, was charged with tilting the playing field.

Reports also pointed to obstruction of polling agents and irregularities in vote counting, further eroding confidence in the fairness of the election.

Out of nearly 40,000 student voters, Shibir’s vote share was roughly double that of JCD. Yet in Jagannath Hall, which houses minority students, Shibir’s VP candidate managed only 10 votes compared to JCD’s 1,276, underscoring the deep polarisation of the contest.

Fears of Islamist resurgence in politics

Security agencies fear that Shibir’s victory could herald an Islamist resurgence in student politics, with potential spillover into national politics.

With the BNP weakened and the Awami League ousted from power in 2024, analysts believe Jamaat may use student politics as a springboard to reclaim political legitimacy and expand its influence.

The DUCSU outcome has already triggered heated debate across Bangladesh about the role of money, foreign influence, and fear in the country’s democratic process.

As rival student groups and political parties react sharply, Dhaka University’s reputation as a bastion of secular and progressive politics faces an unprecedented test.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share