Dhaka: Train services between Rajshahi and other regions were brought to a halt following a protest by Rajshahi University (RU) students who blocked a railway track. The demonstration was in response to an alleged assault on a student by a travelling ticket examiner (TTE).

According to United News of Bangladesh, the students obstructed the railway line near their campus, demanding accountability for the accused TTE who allegedly attacked a student for challenging the practice of collecting fares without issuing receipts. This protest led to the suspension of several trains, including the Dhaka-bound Bonolota Express and Silk City Express, causing inconvenience to numerous passengers.

The student involved, Forkan Uddin from the Department of Law at RU, claimed he witnessed TTEs accepting fares without providing receipts while returning to Rajshahi from Dhaka on the Padma Express. Upon questioning this, Forkan alleged he was assaulted by multiple TTEs who attempted to eject him from the train.

Forkan managed to escape with damaged glasses and called for immediate punishment for the TTEs involved. In response, students vowed to maintain the blockade until their demands were addressed, insisting the accused TTE, Suman, face justice.

Ariful Islam, from the Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Hall Students’ Union, highlighted ongoing issues of irregularities and harassment in railway services. He emphasized the continuation of the blockade until justice and compensation were ensured for Forkan.

University leaders, including RAKSU General Secretary Salahuddin Ammar and Vice-President Mostakur Rahman Zahid, expressed their support for the protestors. The university’s Proctor, Prof Dr Mahbubur Rahman, acknowledged the validity of the students’ demands and assured efforts to resolve the situation swiftly.

Authorities from Bangladesh Railway, the university, and law enforcement were engaged in negotiations with students to restore the train services. Farid Ahmed, general manager of Bangladesh Railway’s Western Zone, expressed optimism about reaching a resolution, although the blockade persisted at the time of reporting.