University students block rail line, demand action over alleged TTE assault

Rail communication between Rajshahi and the rest of Bangladesh has been severed after students from Rajshahi University blocked the railway line. The blockade began early this morning, prompted by allegations that a travelling ticket examiner (TTE) assaulted a fellow student on the Padma Express train. Protesters have occupied the tracks near the university campus, demanding justice and a resolution to their grievances.

The alleged victim, Furkan Uddin, a law student, claims the incident occurred while he was traveling from Dhaka to Rajshahi. He stated that he intervened when he witnessed the TTE allegedly collecting money from passengers without providing official receipts. According to Uddin, the TTE, along with another individual, then dragged him between two train coaches and assaulted him. Passengers reportedly intervened, stopping the assault.

The protesting students have presented a four-point demand, including the immediate production of the accused TTE, his permanent dismissal from service, and prosecution. They also demand compensation for the victim and that all intercity trains make a stop at Rajshahi University Railway Station. University officials, including the Vice-Chancellor, have met with the demonstrators, but the students remain resolute, vowing to continue the blockade until their demands are met.

University Proctor Prof Mahbubur Rahman confirmed that discussions are underway with railway authorities and the protesters to find a resolution. Meanwhile, Bangladesh Railway's Western Zone General Manager Farid Uddin Ahmed acknowledged the disruption to train services since early morning. Rajshahi Railway Station Manager Ziaul Ahsan noted that several trains, including the Bonolota Express and Silk City Express, were unable to depart as scheduled. The accused TTE has been suspended pending an investigation, but protesters insist on his physical presence at the scene.

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The accused TTE be produced before them, permanently dismissed and prosecuted, that the victim be compensated, and that all intercity trains stop at Rajshahi University Railway Station.