Hijab-Wearing DU Student Allegedly Assaulted and Called ‘Pakistani’

Dhaka University: A student of Dhaka University has alleged that she was physically and verbally harassed on campus for wearing a hijab. According to a written complaint submitted to the Proctor’s Office, the incident took place on 29 October around 3 p.m. near the Zoology Department area, where an unidentified woman allegedly spat at her, verbally abused her, and forcibly held her hand while calling her “Pakistani” in a derogatory manner. The victim further stated that after she posted about the incident on social media, she faced victim-blaming comments and online harassment. Following the complaint, DU Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed formed a three-member inquiry committee led by Assistant Proctor Dr Md Miraz Kobad Chowdhury, which has been instructed to submit its findings within three working days. DUCSU (Dhaka University Central Students’ Union): The student body expressed concern over the incident, calling it a “hijab-biased attack” and demanding a review of CCTV footage, identification of the perpetrator, and immediate disciplinary or legal action. TSC Area: Meanwhile, members of Chhatri Sangstha staged a protest on Thursday, giving the university administration a 24-hour ultimatum to identify and punish the accused. Sabikun Nahar Tamanna, president of the Chhatri Sangstha DU unit, questioned why a student would be called “Pakistani” for wearing a hijab and criticised the administration for not reaching out to the victim sooner. University Administration: Authorities stated that the investigation began as soon as the complaint was received and assured that proper action would be taken once the inquiry committee submits its report.