Islamic University: Sheikh Mujibur Hall renamed Shah Azizur Hall

The authorities of Islamic University have changed the names of its four dormitories and an academic building that were previously named after ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and her family members.

The IU yesterday issued a notification, signed by the university's assistant registrar, in this regard.

The decision was made at the 267th syndicate meeting held on February 28, according to the notification.

As per the new names, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall has been renamed Shah Azizur Hall, while Sheikh Russel Hall has been renamed Shaheed Anas Hall, Bangamata Begum Fazilatunnessa Mujib Hall Ummul Muminin Ayesha Siddika Hall, and Sheikh Hasina Hall July-36 Hall.

Besides, the name of Wazed Miah Science Building has been changed to Ibn Sina Science Building.

Meanwhile, Chhatra Union of IU unit has issued a statement condemning the renaming of a hall after Shah Azizur Rahman.

In a joint statement, IU Chhatra Union President Mahmudul Hasan and General Secretary Nur Alam said, "Renaming a residential hall after an identified war criminal like Shah Azizur Rahman is a disgraceful decision. It also contradicts the spirit of the July uprising. We urge the university authorities to rename the hall after Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani."

IU VC Prof Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah told this correspondent, "Shah Azizur Rahman was involved in the establishment of the university. People may criticise it, but he contributed to the creation of this university. Whether people are condemning it or not is not a matter for the syndicate. He was an important figure in the country's politics, particularly within the BNP's political sphere."