Finance and Planning Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury called for a strict stance against the entry of outsiders into the Chittagong University campus, saying that universities must remain dedicated solely to academic pursuits.
“Universities are for students. It must be ensured that no outsiders, regardless of their political affiliation or religion, can enter the campus,” he said while speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural ceremony of the Saraswati Gyan Mandir on the campus around 10:00am.
Highlighting the importance of diversity in higher education, he said, “Diversity is crucial for a university. Without diversity, progress is not possible.”
The minister noted that not all initiatives can be carried out by the government alone, emphasising the need for collective efforts from all sections of society to build a tolerant, sensitive, humane and stable country.
Referring to the constitution, he said all citizens of Bangladesh have equal rights and there is no need to use terms like “minority” or other divisive labels.
“We must move forward as equal citizens,” he said, adding that positive changes are already visible in the country.
Also speaking at the event, State Minister for Land and Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Mir Mohammad Helal Uddin said the government is committed to building a “Bangladesh of dreams” under capable leadership.
“We are determined to implement all promises made to the people, and God willing, within the next five years, each commitment will be realised,” he said.
Among others, Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Bijon Kanti Sarkar, PM’s Principal Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar, and the Chairman of CU Abdul-Anita Trust Abdul Kanti Chowdhury were present as special guests. The programme was presided over by CU Vice-Chancellor Prof Mohammad Al-Forkan.
In 2011, in response to a demand from the Sanatan Dharma Parishad -- a council comprising Hindu teachers, students, and officials from various departments -- an initiative was taken to construct a temple on approximately 20,000 square feet of land in the university’s north campus area.
Subsequently, in 2012, the proposal was approved by the university syndicate.
On February 4, 2019, work began on laying the foundation stone of the temple. The main structure, built in an elegant architectural style, was fully funded by the Adul‑Anita Trust.
