A brazen assault by students on a Chittagong University assistant professor has ignited a firestorm of condemnation across Bangladesh. Led by Central Students’ Union office secretary Abdullah Al Noman, the group manhandled Professor Hasan Muhammad Roman Shuvo, dragging him by the collar into the proctor’s office as chilling videos spread like wildfire on social media.

The premeditated nature of the attack, which happened amid admission tests, exposes deep rot in campus governance. Noman’s defense—that he acted to prevent worse violence—rings hollow against undeniable footage showing him spearheading the mob. Observers note this isn’t isolated; it signals a troubling trend where student politicians enforce ‘justice’ through fists rather than forums.

University officials remain mum, fueling accusations of complicity. With probes already underway into the professor’s conduct, the assault crosses every red line. Legal experts warn that taking law into one’s hands breeds anarchy, especially in hallowed academic halls meant for dialogue, not brawls.

The incident dredges up ghosts of past unrest, but invoking the July student uprising to excuse thuggery draws sharp rebuke. That movement fought tyranny, not mirrored it. Now, tough questions loom: What safeguards failed? Why no arrests? Will impunity embolden future attacks?

Stakeholders from educators to fresh admits are alarmed, fearing a campus where power trumps principles. Chittagong University’s response could redefine its legacy—opting for accountability might restore faith, while inaction invites chaos. Bangladesh watches closely as this pivotal moment unfolds.