JnU syndicate addresses sexual harassment allegations, administrative issues

The 95th syndicate meeting of Jagannath University (JnU), its highest policy-making body, focused on addressing allegations of sexual harassment against a female student by a teacher. Discussions also revolved around allegations of unethical relationships and misconduct with colleagues against the same teacher, as well as various issues including teacher recruitment.

The meeting took place in the Vice-Chancellors conference room at the university from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday. ABS Manik Munsi, Assistant Professor of the Mathematics Department at Jagannath University, has been temporarily dismissed following allegations of establishing illegal relationships with students and sexual harassment.

Several members of the university syndicate informed that the decision was based on the report of the Fact-Finding Committee investigating the allegations against Manik Munsi. Additionally, separate allegations against him have been forwarded to the universitys Sexual Harassment and Prevention Cell for further investigation.
In September of the previous year, allegations surfaced against Manik Munsi, a teacher of the Mathematics Department, regarding the establishment of an illegal relationship with a student from his own department, taking advantage of her mental state. It was alleged that he promised the victim student marriage after divorcing his wife. However, objections arose when he later expressed intentions not to marry the student. Consequently, the victim student lodged a written complaint against the accused teacher to the departmental chairman for appropriate action. At that time, he was exempted from all departmental activities.

Furthermore, Abu Shahed Emon, lecturer of the Film and Television Department, has been temporarily dismissed on allegations of sexual harassment. Evidence supporting the allegations was found in the previously lodged investigation report against him. Instead of permanent expulsion, he has been served a notice to explain his actions. This decision was based on the report of the investigation board formed by the Vice-Chancellor. A student from the same department, Kazi Farzana Mim, has accused Abu Shahed Emon of sexual harassment. Discussions have also taken place regarding Mims participation in examinations.

Additionally, instructions have been issued to thoroughly review the detailed report of the investigation committee formed to probe allegations against Md Abusalah Sakender, a teacher of the Department of Islamic History and Culture. The allegations include inappropriate remarks, derogatory comments, and a lack of cooperation in academic activities. As the reports lack attachments regarding his allegations, a reexamination of the report has been directed, with the syndicate calling for a reinvestigation into the case.

During the meeting, various issues, including promotions and appointments of teachers, were discussed. Erroneous matters were rectified. The university administration has been conducting syndicate meetings promptly to expedite the resolution of all pending tasks. In the past four months, three syndicate meetings have been held.

Dr Sadeka Halim, the Vice-Chancellor and Chairperson of the Syndicate, mentioned that the prolonged illness of the former Vice-Chancellor and the vacancy of the position for an extended period had led to numerous complexities. Measures are being taken based on the investigation reports of past issues. Emphasis is being placed on addressing these complexities by prioritizing the resolutions from previous investigation committees.