Chittagong's Anti-discrimination Students Movement (ADSM) has removed three key members, including spokesperson Fatema Khanam Liza, from their duties.
The movement convener Arif Moinuddin confirmed the decision through formal orders signed jointly with member secretary Nizam Uddin on Saturday (May 17).
On the same day, two additional notices were signed by the mentioned persons which confirmed the expulsion of the organization’s Joint Member Secretary Abul Bashir Naeem and organizer Shahriar Sikder.
Liza's removal stems from "viral images and videos circulating on social media showing her engaging in substance abuse and leading an undisciplined lifestyle," Moinuddin stated. The leaders expressed concern that such behaviour from a representative of "a platform built on blood and sacrifices of July Uprising martyrs" had tarnished their reputation.
In the video clips and photos, one scene shows the use of a vape, which is banned in Bangladesh. Another shows a young woman in an indecent position. Additionally, some objectionable conversations have been obtained.
However, the videos were also analyzed using artificial intelligence (AI) technology capable of detecting deepfake audio or voices. The analysis did not find any evidence that the videos were AI-generated. Nonetheless, it was not immediately verified whether the woman seen in the images or videos is indeed Fatema Khanam Liza.
Meanwhile, in a video posted on social media at night, Liza claimed, “The allegations brought against me were first made by individuals who themselves are drug users. I’m giving an ultimatum, if they (Convener Arif Moinuddin and Member Secretary Nizam Uddin) cannot provide any evidence of my drug use within the next two hours, I will be compelled to take legal action against them. Secondly, regarding the issue of an 'uncontrolled lifestyle'. This is a completely baseless accusation.”
Naeem was expelled over allegations of harassing a businessman and extortion filed at Bandar Police Station, while Shahriar was removed following a report aired on Channel 24 and his detention by Double Mooring Police Station.
"We cannot allow personal behaviour to undermine what thousands fought for during recent protests," said one senior platform member who requested anonymity. "Approximately 75 per cent of our supporters expect exemplary conduct from those in leadership positions."
