Protirodh Parshad calls out repeated code of conduct violations 

The Protirodh Parshad panel on Sunday presented a six-point demand centring the Dhaka University Central Students' Union (DUCSU) election at a press conference.

"We are witnessing repeated violations of the code of conduct by leaders of various panels. They are openly violating these rules in front of the university administration and the election commission. Yet, the commission remains silent," Jabir Ahmed Jubel, the panel's candidate for the post of assistant general secretary, said.

"What's happening here is that a free-flowing money game has begun on this campus. We are seeing gifts being distributed regularly. Whom are these gifts for? In some cases, religious items are being included in the gifts, so that religion can be used to influence and manipulate people."

The panel included six demands, which will be formally submitted to the Chief Returning Officer in the form of a memorandum. 

They include:

1. Disqualification of candidates involved in past misconduct: Individuals who were involved in student repression, attacks on democratic movements, or other criminal offences and serious misconduct in the past must be disqualified from running in the election.
2. Increase polling centres: The limited number of polling centres poses a barrier to students looking to exercise their voting rights. Therefore, more polling centres must be established, especially in buildings near residential halls, to facilitate easy access for student voters.
3. Suspend exams during election period: Since exams are scheduled immediately before or after the election, many candidates are facing disruptions in campaigning activities. All exams should be suspended from 5 to 11 September; only regular classes should continue.
4. Enforcement of code of conduct: Violations of the election code of conduct must be identified and addressed immediately. Already, incidents have occurred, such as Quran distribution from a stage in front of the Arts Building, rallies held to collect nomination forms, obstruction during form submission, and the display of billboards or banners in violation of the rules. Campaigning inside halls and mosques has also been reported. These are all clear violations of the electoral code. The university administration must play a more effective role in addressing these issues.
5. Include candidate photos on ballots: To assist voters and avoid confusion, candidates' photos must be included beside their names on the ballot papers.
6. Allow alternative valid documents for voting: Since it is difficult for many students to obtain or renew their hall ID cards within a short time, any valid university-issued document should be accepted for the purpose of voting.