Rajshahi University student drowns during swim practice

A sociology student drowned at Rajshahi University’s swimming pool on Sunday afternoon, triggering protests at the campus that stretched into the night. Saima Hossain died after losing consciousness at the facility and being taken to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, where medical staff pronounced her dead.

Students surrounded the vice chancellor’s home from 9:30 p.m. until 11:30 p.m., demanding answers about safety lapses. The protesters questioned why Hossain, who had breathing problems, never received medical clearance before entering the water. University officials promised an inquiry within three days.

Student union leaders said administrators ignored warnings that could have prevented the tragedy. Vice Chancellor Saleh Hasan Naqib formed a committee with faculty and student members to examine what happened. The final-year student from Kushtia lived in Mannujan Hall on campus.