In a significant development highlighting the issue of human rights violations in Bangladesh, Dhaka University’s Vice Chancellor (VC), Professor Dr. Md. Akhtaruzzaman, has been denied a visa to Canada. This denial comes as a resounding victory for human rights advocates worldwide, as it serves as a strong message that violators of human rights must now face consequences for their actions.
Professor Dr. Akhtaruzzaman had applied for a visa at the Canadian High Commission in Dhaka on June 15, with the intention of joining a program at York University, Canada. The program, jointly organized by The Association of Commonwealth Universities and York University, was scheduled to take place on July 19, 2023, at the York University campus. However, even after a month of waiting, the Vice Chancellor did not receive the visa, forcing him to cancel his plans to travel to Canada.
It is widely believed that Professor Dr. Akhtaruzzaman’s visa denial is directly linked to his stance on human rights violations in Bangladesh, which has garnered attention from Canada and resulted in them following the United States’ visa policy. The Canadian authorities, in line with their commitment to upholding human rights and democratic values, have taken a stand against individuals who have shown disregard for human rights.
One of the key reasons for this visa denial is Professor Dr. Akhtaruzzaman’s interference in the freedom of press. Recently, he took a strong stance against the national daily Prothom Alo, accusing them of publishing news and quotations on Independence Day with the intention of inciting unrest. His call for legal action against newspapers and individuals involved in such activities has raised concerns about his commitment to upholding the freedom of the press, a fundamental aspect of human rights.
Furthermore, Professor AKM Jamal Uddin, a known Awami League supporter in politics, proposed extending the term of the current parliament and government for another five years without national elections. This proposal, made during a human chain event organized by the Dhaka University Teachers’ Association, received encouragement from Vice-Chancellor Akhtaruzzaman, which is a clear violation of human rights and democratic principles. Despite this endorsement of an illegal power stay, the Vice Chancellor has taken no action against Jamal Uddin.
Moreover, incidents of violence and torture against ordinary students by leaders and activists of Chhatra League, a student organization affiliated with the government party, have been reported in Dhaka University. Shockingly, the Vice Chancellor has failed to take any action against these perpetrators, instead, providing encouragement to the Chhatra League. This lack of action has contributed to a deteriorating classroom atmosphere and compromised the safety and well-being of students.
In recent remarks, the Vice Chancellor suggested that the United States’ implementation of the visa policy was a means to question upcoming elections. Additionally, he mentioned the country’s plans to become the 20th strongest economy by 2040. These statements indicate that Professor Dr. Akhtaruzzaman has consistently shown support for human rights violations, which is completely contradictory to the responsibilities of a Vice Chancellor in an educational institution.
The denial of a visa to Dhaka University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Md. Akhtaruzzaman, serves as a momentous occasion for the global human rights movement. It sends a powerful message that individuals who violate human rights will face repercussions for their actions. This development calls for increased awareness and actions to address the human rights situation in Bangladesh, ensuring the protection and promotion of human rights for all citizens.
