The two-storied stately building is nearly 150-year-old and once housed an Indian bank during British era. In July 1884, the building started being used as the library of the erstwhile Jagannath College.

Leading architects and environmentalists of the country expressed grave concern over what they called 'thoughtless act' of the authorities.

"The building must not be demolished in this manner because it is old, historic and of immense architectural value," said architect Mahbub Rahman, general secretary of Institute of Architects Bangladesh.

"Besides, it has an economic implication because the building was in use. It is neither in a dilapidated condition nor a threat to the public safety," Rahman said.

The ornate building bears testimony of British colonial architectural styles, he said.

Architect Homaira Zaman, an activist of Urban Study Group, said it is a constitutional right and obligation to protect the building, which is over 100 years old.

The building represents its own time, said architect Mustaque Quadry.

Quadry, who is also an expert on trees, said, "At least 25 to 30 rare species of ancient trees and plants have been felled down in the garden adjoining the building."

The majestic structure to the east of university's commerce faculty and close to the main entry is apparently separated from the designated campus of the university by a boundary wall.

Protesting the action, environmentalists forum Paribesh Bachao Andolon yesterday arranged an impromptu demonstration at the site where a good number of architects and environmentalists as well as students of the university took part.

"The historic building is a national heritage. Along with the garden, it must be protected at any cost," said Andolon's convener Abu Naser Khan.

The message is that any individual or authority must take utmost precaution before demolishing a historic monument, he said.

As of yesterday, roofs and railings of the two-storied grand building were demolished while labourers were found busy felling scores of old trees in the garden in front of the building.

"We have got the contract to demolish the building in two months," said Md Abul, who was given the contract for demolition of the building. "I will take the whole lot of debris, bricks and iron frames and beams as my pay for the work."

"I came to know from my forefathers that the building originally housed an Indian bank during the British era," said a local.

"Most of us did not know anything about shifting of our library and demolition of the historic building. Coming to the campus after four days of blockade programme by the opposition, we suddenly saw the library has been shifted to the science faculty and the old building is being pulled down," said Lipi Pal, a second-year student of Physics.

"The old building is being replaced with a twenty-story high-rise with construction of seven stories in the first phase," said an on-duty security guard at the university's main gate.

On behalf Paribesh Bachao Andolon, Abu Naser Khan yesterday filed a general diary with the Kotowali Police Station.

Despite repeated attempts, vice-chancellor of the university Prof Sirajul Islam could not be contacted for his version.