Controversy has erupted at Chittagong University (CU) over the decision to exclude an Indigenous or National Identity Affairs Secretary post from the proposed reforms of the Chittagong University Central Students’ Union (CUCSU).
The demand, first raised on 21 August by the campus unit of Revolutionary Students Unity (Biplobi Chatra Moitri), was part of a broader five-point proposal that also included the creation of posts for Transport Secretary, Common Room and Cafeteria Secretary, and Faculty-Based Secretary. While the university administration has accepted three of the four proposed positions, it rejected the Indigenous Affairs post.
Why the Post Was Demanded
At the August press conference, Moitri leaders argued that CU has a significantly higher proportion of Indigenous students compared to other public universities, due to its geographical location drawing students from the Chittagong Hill Tracts and surrounding regions.
“Even within this university, Indigenous students face neglect and deprivation. A dedicated post would ensure their rights and representation,” said Moitri President Jashad Jakir at the time, stressing that the position should be elected exclusively from among Indigenous students.
Reaction to the Exclusion
On 13 September, Jakir posted on Facebook criticizing the administration’s decision to drop the Indigenous Affairs position.
“CU is one of the most diverse campuses in the country, with people from varied ethnic and religious communities. Yet the administration ignored the most crucial demand. Anyone seeking votes in CUCSU should remember: democracy cannot be built by leaving sections of the student body behind,” he wrote.
Jakir urged candidates and organizations to commit themselves to inclusive representation and to act as the “voice for all.”
Broader Demands for Reform
Moitri’s reform package also called for:
- Academic buildings to serve as polling centers
- Exclusion of MPhil and PhD researchers from CUCSU membership and voting rights
- Gender equality in office bearer positions, including removing male-only restrictions on the Office Secretary post
- Establishment of a cyber-bullying monitoring cell with powers to revoke voting rights of offenders
- Publication of a final voter list with photographs
The Indigenous Affairs post, however, has become the focal point of debate, raising questions about whether CUCSU reforms are truly inclusive.
A Long-Awaited Election
The push for reform comes as Chittagong University prepares for its first CUCSU election in 36 years, scheduled for 12 October 2025. With over 25,000 registered voters, the election is already under scrutiny amid disputes over representation, transparency, and the election management committee’s political affiliations.
