Dhaka University Correspondent
Executive member of the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Sarbamitro Chakma has announced his decision to resign following widespread criticism over viral videos showing him forcing teenagers and young men to do sit-ups by holding their ears at the university’s Physical Education Centre.
The videos, recorded at the central field and gymnasium of University of Dhaka, circulated widely on social media over the past two days, triggering strong public backlash. Facing mounting criticism, Chakma issued a public apology and confirmed his resignation from the DUCSU executive body.
In a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Monday afternoon, Chakma said the Physical Education Centre is strictly reserved for university students, but unchecked entry of outsiders for a long time has turned the area into a serious security concern. He cited repeated incidents of harassment of female students, along with theft of mobile phones, wallets and bicycles.
According to Chakma, despite repeated complaints from students, the university administration failed to take effective measures. He pointed out the absence of CCTV cameras, inadequate security arrangements and lack of concrete steps to prevent unauthorized entry into the area.
Explaining his actions, Chakma wrote that outsiders regularly entered the campus by climbing over the wall opposite Dhaka Medical College. He claimed that when stopped, some of them allegedly responded by throwing stones at staff and fleeing, creating an environment of fear and insecurity.
“In this situation of administrative failure and security risks, I acted in a way that was not appropriate,” he wrote. “Punishing anyone in this manner was wrong. I sincerely apologize for my actions.”
He added that his resignation was a personal decision, not driven by anger or resentment. Chakma stated that he believes he failed to meet the expectations of the students who elected him as their representative and that he is taking responsibility for the situation.
In a separate post, Chakma said his primary concern throughout his tenure had been campus security. He claimed to have submitted several proposals to the administration, including limiting vehicle movement, introducing registered rickshaws and strengthening boundary walls. However, continued administrative inaction, he said, made it impossible to ensure student safety.
Citing mental pressure and personal distress, Chakma concluded that continuing in office was no longer feasible. “When it becomes impossible to work within the system and the law, there is no value in holding onto the position,” he wrote.
