Summary:
- Former student coordinators launched Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangshad (Democratic Student Parliament) at Dhaka University, positioning it as a platform for democratic engagement.
- Central leadership includes Abu Baker Majumdar (Convenor), Ashrefa Khatun (Spokesperson), Zahid Ahsan (Member Secretary), and Tahmid Al Mudassir (Chief Organizer.
- The Dhaka University chapter named Abdul Kader (Convener), Mahir Alam (Member Secretary), Hasib Al Islam (Chief Organizer), and Rafia Rehnuma Hridi (Spokesperson).
- The group’s public launch at Madhu Canteen on February 26 signals a strategic push to reshape campus politics amid Bangladesh’s broader democratic discourse.
A new student organization named Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangshad (Democratic Student Parliament) emerged at Dhaka University on Wednesday afternoon, formed by former student coordinators aiming to strengthen democratic participation among youth. The group announced its leadership structure during a press conference at Madhu Canteen, with Abu Baker Majumdar appointed as central convenor and Ashrefa Khatun as spokesperson.
The organization’s founding members include Zahid Ahsan as member secretary and Tahmid Al Mudassir as chief organizer. Simultaneously, its Dhaka University chapter unveiled separate leadership, naming Abdul Kader as convener, Mahir Alam as member secretary, Hasib Al Islam as chief organizer, and Rafia Rehnuma Hridi as spokesperson. The launch signals a fresh attempt to mobilize students around democratic principles amid ongoing campus political activities.
The move comes at a time when student groups in Bangladesh face heightened scrutiny over their role in national politics. While the organization’s immediate agenda remains unclear, its emphasis on “democratic values” aligns with broader calls for institutional reform within educational spaces. Dhaka University, historically a hub for student-led movements, provides a symbolic backdrop for the group’s debut.
Analysts suggest the formation reflects growing dissent among former student leaders seeking alternative platforms beyond traditional party-affiliated organizations. The leadership’s decision to prioritize transparency—evident in its public announcement of roles—contrasts with opaque structures common in established student groups.
Authorities have not yet commented on the organization’s registration status or potential affiliations. Students present at the event described the launch as “a peaceful initiative to foster critical dialogue,” though skeptics question its capacity to influence existing power dynamics.
As Bangladesh approaches a contentious electoral cycle, the emergence of Ganatantrik Chhatra Sangshad underscores the enduring interplay between campus activism and national politics. Observers will monitor whether the group adopts an advocacy-focused approach or engages directly with electoral processes.
