DU Prof Halim probe stalls; students protest lack of progress

The investigation committee formed to probe sexual harassment allegations against Dhaka University (DU) Chemistry Professor Dr Md Ershad Halim has reportedly made no progress two months after its formation, triggering protests by students.

Students of the Chemistry Department staged a sit-in around 3:00 PM on Monday in front of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration)’s office, chanting slogans and demanding swift completion of the probe. Some demonstrators threatened to lock the vice-chancellor’s (VC) office if their demands were not addressed.

The committee was constituted on November 20 last year following allegations that Professor Halim sexually harassed a male student. The panel was asked to submit its report within three months. However, protesting students claimed that the committee has yet to hold a single meeting despite the passage of two months.

Professor Halim was arrested in connection with the allegations and later sent to jail. University administration subsequently placed him under temporary suspension pending the outcome of the investigation.

During the protest, student representatives submitted their demands to Pro-Vice Chancellor (Administration) Professor Dr Sayema Haque Bidisha.

They called for a fair, impartial investigation and publication of the report within the stipulated timeframe, along with appropriate action against the accused.

Chemistry student Md Samiul Islam said the administration had assured students that the probe would be completed within three months. “But no meeting has been held so far. We want the investigation report made public on time and justice ensured,” he said.

Another student, Rahul Biswas, displayed a symbolic red card during the demonstration, saying it reflected the administration’s failure to respond to repeated queries about the progress of the case.

Probe committee member Sheikh Ayyub Ali told reporters that the committee plans to hold a meeting on Tuesday. “We will try to complete the investigation within the stipulated time after speaking with both the complainant and the accused,” he said.

Pro-VC Professor Dr Sayema Haque Bidisha said the committee operates independently, but the administration would urge it to complete the process within the deadline.

NRE/AM