The authorities of Islamic University (IU) in Kushtia on Saturday suspended one of its teachers from the university temporarily following allegations of sexual harassment by multiple female students.
The suspended teacher was identified as Dr. Azizul Islam, an associate professor of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering of the university.
An office order, signed by IU acting registrar Professor M Manjurul Haque, was issued in this regard on Saturday afternoon.
According to the office order, several students lodged formal complaints accusing Dr. Azizul Islam of sexual harassment, inappropriate and obscene behavior, making vulgar comments about students’ clothing and physical appearance in class, and engaging in unwelcome conversations via video calls on WhatsApp, Messenger, and Imo.
The allegations, which gained attention in national and social media, have significantly damaged the university’s reputation, the statement noted.
As a result, the university suspended Dr. Azizul Islam with effect from July 5, although he will continue to receive a subsistence allowance as per university rules during the suspension period.
Earlier, a group of female students lodged a written complaint with IU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Nakib Mohammad Nasrullah seeking punishment of the teacher.
The university authorities, however, formed a four-member investigation committee, led by Al-Fiqh and Law Department Professor Dr. Muhammad Nazimuddin, to look into the matter.
The probe body has been asked to submit its reports withing 20 working days, the release added.
JR/HKJ
