DMC shuts indefinitely amid student protest over housing

DMC students protest over five demands at main gate, 21 June 2025.

Dhaka Medical College (DMC) has suspended all academic activities indefinitely in response to ongoing student protests over a severe accommodation crisis.

Authorities have also instructed all students—except those currently sitting for professional MBBS examinations and foreign students—to vacate their hostels by 12pm on 22 June.

The decision was taken at an emergency meeting of the Academic Council held today (21 June), according to a statement from the college administration.

Confirming the development, DMC Principal Prof Dr Md Kamrul Alam said, “Students are demanding new hostels right now. They are at risk. But it is not possible to build this instantly. We agree with their demands.

“We also want a new hostel for Dhaka Medical College. That is why all halls will be closed, and students will be reallocated once arrangements are made. Academic activities will resume soon.”

However, protesting students have rejected the directive to vacate the halls.

“We believe the hall closure order is an attempt to suppress the movement. We will not vacate. We will continue our protest until our demands are met,” said Abdullah Al Noman, a student of the K-79 batch.

He added, “Plaster is falling from the ceiling in our Shaheed Dr Fazle Rabbi Hall. The walls and pillars are in terrible condition. We have long demanded a new hall. Until then, alternative accommodation must be arranged.”

Students began their protest on 28 May by boycotting classes and exams, putting forward five demands centred on safety and accommodation. Since 6 June, they have continued with an indefinite class boycott.

College authorities stated they are working to resolve the crisis and resume academic activities as soon as possible.