Dr. Md. Harun-or-Rashid, a professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), has been suspended over allegations of sexually harassing a Malaysian female student.
The suspension was confirmed by BAU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. A. K. Fazlul Haque Bhuiyan on Wednesday.
University sources revealed that the decision came after an urgent syndicate meeting on Monday afternoon, where a report and recommendations from an investigation committee were presented.
Dr. Harun-or-Rashid was served a show-cause notice and has been given 10 days to respond.
In addition to the suspension, the syndicate decided to probe further incidents of violence against women and sexual harassment at the university.
Various organizations, including the Bangladesh Women's Council's Legal Aid Sub-Committee and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, have demanded a thorough investigation and appropriate punishment for the accused professor. The Malaysian Embassy in Dhaka has also requested a copy of the investigation report.
The allegations first surfaced on September 25, when the Malaysian student accused Dr. Harun of sexual harassment. In response, the university formed a five-member committee to investigate the claims. Throughout the investigation, students held human chains and protest rallies, calling for a fair investigation and demanding justice for the victim.
