Travel ban imposed on RU ex-VC Abdus Sobhan

A Dhaka court on Monday imposed a travel ban on Rajshahi University's former Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr M Abdus Sobhan amid allegations of corruption and abuse of power. 

Dhaka Metropolitan Senior Special Judge Zakir Hossain Galib passed the order in response to a petition filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

According to the petition submitted by ACC Assistant Director Khorshed Alam, Dr Sobhan is under investigation for allegedly misusing his authority, engaging in financial irregularities, and violating government restrictions by illegally appointing 138 teachers and staff during his tenure. 

The ACC further stated that credible sources have indicated he acquired agricultural land, flats, and plots through illicit means and was attempting to transfer assets while planning to flee abroad.

Authorities fear that if Dr. Sobhan leaves the country, the ongoing investigation can be severely delayed or disrupted. Considering the issue, the court deemed it necessary to impose a restriction on his travel.

Dr M Abdus Sobhan joined Rajshahi University in 1974 as a lecturer in the Department of Applied Physics and Electrical Engineering and was promoted to professor in 1994. He also served as the founding chair of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. 

AL/HK