Rajshahi University’s Officers Association announced a seven-day suspension of their ongoing “complete shutdown” program, which was called in protest over the recent harassment of faculty members. The association also issued an ultimatum that if their demands are not met within the next seven working days, they will organize a broader action involving all members.

The decision was disclosed in a joint statement signed by the association’s President, Md Mukhtar Hossain, and Treasurer, Md Masud Rana, on Wednesday (September 24) at 1:00 pm.

The statement noted that an emergency meeting was held today at 11:00 am at the Officers Association office with representatives from the Officers, Support Staff, General, and Transport Associations.

According to the statement, the meeting reached the following decision: “On September 23 at noon, a bilateral discussion was held between the university administration and the Officers Association. Based on the administration’s assurance to implement our demands promptly, the ongoing shutdown program is suspended from 1:00 pm today. If the demands are not met within the next seven working days, we will adopt a larger action involving all members.”

Earlier, Rajshahi University saw days of unrest after the university administration reinstated the previously canceled quota system with 10 conditions last Thursday (September 18). Students began protesting the move, and the dispute escalated Saturday afternoon when clashes broke out between students and staff at Juberi building. On Sunday, staff held a one-day strike demanding exemplary punishment for those responsible and continued with the indefinite work stoppage starting Monday. Much of the campus was left deserted during the “complete shutdown,” which continued till today.