Published: 11:46 PM, 30 September 2026
Sheikh Mujib's name restored to Dhaka University hall
Dhaka University authorities on Wednesday began restoring the name of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to a residential hall after removing the nameplate bearing the name of Inqilab Mancha leader Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, following a decision to retain the university's original institutional names.
The nameplate reading "Shaheed Osman Hadi Hall" was removed from the main entrance of the hall at noon. A new sign bearing the name "Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall" is being installed in its place, according to university officials.
Dhaka University Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Mohammed Almujaddade Alfasane said the move followed a decision taken at the university's Senate. "At the last Senate session, a decision was taken to retain the previous names of the establishments. That is now being implemented," he said.
The hall had been informally renamed Shaheed Osman Hadi Hall in December 2025 following the death of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi. Hadi, the leader of Inqilab Mancha, was shot on December 12 and died while receiving treatment in Singapore on December 18. Following his death, students removed the existing nameplate and installed one carrying Hadi's name.
In January 2026, the university's Syndicate recommended formally renaming Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Hall as Shaheed Osman Hadi Hall. However, the proposal did not receive final approval. At the annual Senate session on June 29, the proposed renaming was not approved, and the matter was sent back for further consideration. University officials said the Shaheed Osman Hadi name had not been formally approved by the administration. Acting Proctor Israfil Ratan said the nameplate had been installed by students, while the university had not officially sanctioned the change.
The restoration marks the latest development in a dispute over the naming of one of Dhaka University's residential halls.
