Calls to punish use of ‘adivasi’ term in DUCSU polls
PARBATTANEWS REPORT
Politician Engineer Thoai Ching Mong Shak has demanded that those promoting the use of the term “adivasi” in the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) election be identified and brought under punishment.
In a statement, Mr Shak said the word “adivasi” is a deeply controversial issue in Bangladesh’s current context. He alleged that a vested quarter was taking a position against the Constitution to serve their own interests.
According to him, some candidates in the DUCSU election are deliberately using the “adivasi” label to win votes from non-Bengali students. He described this as a violation of the constitutional framework and part of what he called a “long-planned conspiracy” by anti-state groups.
Mr Shak said the aim of such efforts was to use recognition as “adivasi” to raise demands for autonomy, which he warned could weaken the state and lead to division.
He added that “not only non-Bengalis but also a section of Bengalis are actively cooperating in this adivasi conspiracy.” He alleged that campaigns in support of the term were being conducted in both mainstream media and on social media in a planned manner.
Mr Shak urged authorities to act immediately. “We firmly state that those groups who, while residing inside the country, conspire against the state must be identified and brought under the law,” he said.
He also questioned the role of Dhaka University authorities. “How can the administration of Dhaka University remain silent and inactive against such unconstitutional activities?” he asked.
Through the media, Mr Shak called on relevant authorities to take firm steps. “These conspirators must be identified without delay and exemplary punishment ensured. The university administration must be held accountable—how are they allowing this conspiracy to continue? Strong measures must be taken to keep the electoral process healthy and within the constitutional framework,” he said.
He concluded by warning against politics of division. “We will not in any way tolerate anti-state conspiracies and the politics of division. This Bangladesh, achieved through the Liberation War, will remain united,” he said.
