Professor Dr. Ainul Islam, a controversial teacher and leader of the pro-Awami League 'Blue Panel' at Jagannath University, has been appointed as the new dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences. The appointment, announced in mid-July 2026, has sparked widespread anger across the campus due to his alleged involvement in advising former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during a violent crackdown on student protests in August 2024.

According to reports, Dr. Islam attended a meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office during the 2024 student movement, where he allegedly supported the use of force against demonstrators. He has also faced previous allegations of unethical conduct, including a 2010 incident that led to his removal as proctor and a 2022 case involving false accusations against students. In August 2024, he was accused of attempting to remove official documents while serving as acting registrar.

Student leaders from various organizations have condemned the appointment, calling for its immediate cancellation and threatening strong protest actions if their demands are not met.