Dhaka, Jan 9 (NationPress) In a move that has sparked significant controversy, the administration of Bangladesh's Dhaka University has opted to change the name of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall to Osman Hadi Hall, honoring the late radical Islamist leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was tragically killed in the capital last month.

Additionally, Sheikh Fazilatunnesa Hall, named after the wife of former President Mujibur Rahman, will now be called Captain Sitara Parvin Hall, according to reports from local media.

This decision was made during a session of the university's highest governing body—the Syndicate—on Thursday, which was overseen by the university's Vice-Chancellor Niaz Ahmed Khan.

Dhaka University's Proctor Saifuddin Ahmed confirmed the news to the Dhaka Tribune, saying, "The final decision lies with the Senate; the Syndicate has submitted the name change proposal for consideration. Although the Syndicate does not have the final say, we are progressing—this is one step completed."

This name change occurs amidst growing concerns over rising violence against monuments and cultural heritage associated with the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War against Pakistan, highlighting fears over the ongoing decline of historical legacies under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.

In the wake of Hadi's death on December 18, the hall's union promptly removed the original nameplate, replacing it with one that reads Osman Hadi Hall, as reported by local media.

Moreover, several students were noted painting over a prominent graffiti mural of Mujibur Rahman located on the hall's main building.

Following the announcement of Hadi's death, his supporters engaged in violent protests targeting minorities, Indian High Commission offices, cultural institutions, and media organizations throughout Bangladesh.

On the same day, the Dhaka University Syndicate also moved forward with charges against four teachers associated with the pro-Awami League Blue Panel, seeking their dismissal and requiring them to respond to a show-cause notice within the week.

According to Saifuddin Ahmed, "Charges have been filed, and they will need to explain why these charges have been made against them and why they should not be let go. They have not yet been dismissed, but the process for their potential dismissal has begun."

Last month, three pro-Awami League teachers from Dhaka University were reportedly assaulted and harassed by a group of students linked to the Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU), following the submission of a memorandum urging the reinstatement of teachers barred from classes.

Bangladesh has been grappling with a worsening security situation and unsafe working conditions under the interim government of Muhammad Yunus, with increasing worries about political interference, restrictions on academic freedom, and assaults on dissenters.