Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) has suspended Dr. M. Harun-or-Rashid, a professor from the Department of Agricultural Economics, following allegations of sexual assault against a Malaysian female student.
According to an official order issued by the university’s Additional Registrar (Establishment) on Thursday, the decision was finalized during an emergency syndicate meeting on December 30 of last year. The suspension was enforced after Dr. Harun-or-Rashid’s response to the chargesheet submitted against him was deemed unsatisfactory.
Dr. Md. Helal Uddin, acting registrar of BAU, stated that the complaint was initially lodged on September 25 by a Malaysian student from the university’s Veterinary Faculty, accusing the professor of sexual harassment. In response, the administration promptly formed a five-member investigation committee to look into the matter, UNB reports.
“The professor was removed from his position as his defense against the allegations was found to be inadequate,” Dr. Uddin confirmed.
The incident has sparked concerns over campus safety and the treatment of international students, prompting discussions on stricter measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
