A serene Friday morning turned tragic for Rajshahi University as Professor Shiv Shankar Roy, 58, of the Marketing Department, lost his life in a road accident, while his colleague, Md Asaduzzaman of the Philosophy Department, remains in critical condition.

The accident occurred around 7am in Paba upazila near the Ansar Camp on the Naogaon-Rajshahi highway, when a speeding vehicle rammed into the motorcycle the two professors were riding, before fleeing the scene. 

Locals rushed to help, taking the victims to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. Despite their efforts, Prof Shankar succumbed to severe head injuries before reaching the hospital, while Prof Asaduzzaman fights for his life in the Intensive Care Unit.

Assistant Proctor Gias Uddin said the professors were heading towards Nowhata for a morning fishing trip. “Prof Asaduzzaman was driving, and Prof Shankar was the pillion passenger. It is believed that the impact was so severe that Prof Shankar died instantly,” he said.

Prof Shankar, known for his dedication to teaching and mentorship, was a familiar figure in the university corridors. Colleagues recall his calm demeanor, unwavering commitment to students, and tireless efforts to develop the Marketing Department. Students who had taken classes with him described him as “a guiding light” whose advice often extended beyond academics.

The university community has been left in shock. Messages of condolence poured in from faculty, students, and alumni, mourning the untimely loss of a respected teacher. The body has been kept at the medical college morgue, and arrangements are being made to send it to his native home in Sujanagar upazila, Pabna district.

Road safety remains a pressing concern in the region. Police have appealed to witnesses to provide information about the hit-and-run vehicle that caused the tragedy.