University Professor Sacked Over Allegations of Homosexuality and Student Harassment

The authorities of Islamic University (IU) have permanently terminated Assistant Professor Hafizul Islam of the Development Studies Department following allegations of homosexuality and student harassment. The decision was confirmed through an office order signed by the university’s Acting Registrar, Professor Monjurul Haque, on Monday, June 30.

The termination follows a decision made during the university’s 268th Syndicate meeting, based on the Employee Efficiency and Discipline Rules, Clause 4(1)(F). The action was taken in response to complaints lodged by students of the Development Studies Department, which prompted the formation of an investigation committee. The committee’s findings, reviewed during the 266th Syndicate meeting, initially led to a one-year mandatory leave and the withholding of annual increments for Hafizul Islam under Clauses 4(1)(b) and (5) of the same rules. However, following further investigation and persistent demands from students across various academic years, the Syndicate’s 267th and 268th meetings concluded that Hafizul’s actions were detrimental to the university’s peace and discipline, leading to his permanent dismissal effective May 31.

Borhan Uddin, a student from the 2017-18 academic year and president of the Development Studies Club, expressed satisfaction with the decision, stating, “The administration’s earlier decision was superficial, but we remained firm in our demand for his permanent expulsion. This decision has relieved the department’s students from various forms of harassment. We are overjoyed, and words cannot express our gratitude.” He further urged the administration to investigate similar allegations against other faculty members and ensure accountability.

Efforts to contact Hafizul Islam for comment were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls.

The allegations against Hafizul Islam surfaced on October 7, 2024, when students accused him of homosexuality, sexual harassment, physical and mental abuse, making derogatory remarks, labeling students with beards as “Shibir” (a political group), deliberately lowering grades, and forcing students to participate in Chhatra League processions. The students outlined 27 specific complaints and staged a hours-long protest, blocking the university’s main gate. They also threw shoes at an effigy of Hafizul and burned it as part of their demonstrations, demanding his permanent removal. The students continued their protests and various programs until the university administration met their demands.