IU Imposes Curfews for Dorm Residents, Faces Heavy Criticism

Staff Reporter

Islamic University (IU) authorities have imposed strict curfew times for dormitory residents, sparking widespread backlash on social media. Female students must enter their dorms within 15 minutes of the Maghrib prayer call, while male students have until 11 p.m. to return.

The Provost Council made the decision during its 140th regular meeting on December 22. Professor Dr. Sheikh A.B.M. Zakir Hossain, president of the council and provost of Shahid Ziaur Rahman Hall, confirmed the new regulations. Students criticized the decision immediately after the announcement.

Social media users called the rules discriminatory and unnecessary for university-level students. Students mocked the decision with sarcastic comments, memes, and posts, demanding its revocation.

Students questioned the rationale for different curfews for male and female residents. Some suggested uniform entry times, while others compared the curfews to those imposed on schoolchildren.

Students expressed concerns about inadequate campus security. Several criticized dorm conditions, citing poor lighting, insufficient reading spaces, and low-quality cafeteria food. Many pointed to issues like lack of generators, limited access to water, and insufficient study spaces.

Critics noted the administration’s focus on restrictive rules instead of improving campus facilities. Students argued that male residents face similar security risks and called for equal treatment.

Provost Council members discussed hiring additional security guards for the winter break and addressing overdue dormitory fund contributions. The council deferred decisions about keeping dorm dining facilities operational during the break due to logistical challenges.