Sanctioned DU official’s appointment sparks controversy

Dhaka University (DU) has sparked controversy by appointing a previously sanctioned official as the acting director of its Physical Education Centre.

Noyona Chowdhury assumed the role on July 16 despite a documented history of financial misconduct.

A DU syndicate probe in 2018 found Noyona guilty of misappropriating funds. She received a final warning and had one annual pay increment cancelled on July 29 of that year.

Former director Md Shokatur Rahman described the incident as “serious financial fraud”, alleging that she deliberately altered cheque amounts beyond the limits approved by the vice-chancellor (VC).

Acting registrar Munsi Shams Uddin Ahmad said the appointment decision strictly followed seniority protocols.
“No seniority breach occurred,” he added.

DU Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr ABM Obaidul Islam told the media that since Noyona had completed her penalty and no charges remain pending, she was eligible for the post.

When contacted, Noyona declined to comment on the previous allegations and directed all queries to the university administration.