Karachi (Staff Reporter): The Islami Jamiat Talaba (IJT) staged protests across Karachi on Monday and Tuesday against the expulsion of students from Dawood University of Engineering and Technology (DUET). The demonstrations caused severe traffic jams on at least eight major roads of the city, leaving commuters stranded for hours.
Protesters also gathered outside the main gate of DUET, where students and faculty inside the campus were confined, while newly admitted students faced difficulties and were forced to return home.
According to the university spokesperson, Vice Chancellor Dr. Samreen Hussain personally approached the protesters in an effort to negotiate, but the demonstrators allegedly misbehaved with her, harassed her, and chanted slogans against her, further escalating the situation. “The Vice Chancellor attempted to listen to their grievances, but the unruly behavior of the protestors dishonored the sanctity of her office,” the spokesperson added. Police and university administration swiftly intervened to escort the Vice Chancellor to safety and restore order.
The IJT protesters demanded the immediate reinstatement of the expelled students, calling the disciplinary actions “unjust.” On the other hand, the DUET administration maintained that the safety and security of all students remains their top priority, and further measures will be taken to ensure a peaceful academic environment.
The IJT has announced that its protests will continue until their demands are met. Meanwhile, heavy police contingents have been deployed around the campus to maintain law and order.
