Dhaka University suspends 3 teachers, forms tribunal over July Uprising roles

Dhaka University has formed a tribunal against three teachers over allegations concerning their roles during the 2024 July Uprising and complaints raised by students.

Professor M Wahiduzzaman of the Institute of Education and Research, Professor Muhammad Mahbubur Rahman Litu, and Professor Mashiur Rahman of the Department of Sociology were also suspended from their academic and administrative duties pending proceedings in decisions taken at a meeting of the university Syndicate, the institution's highest policymaking body, yesterday (31 August).

Professor Mohammed Almujaddade Alfasane, pro-vice-chancellor (administration), told The Business Standard today that the tribunals were formed over the teachers' "controversial roles" during the uprising and various complaints submitted by students.

The decisions followed recommendations from an investigation committee formed by the administration.

Associate Professor Md Ziaur Rahman of the Department of Music was also suspended.
An investigation committee has been formed to examine allegations that he did not meet the educational qualifications specified in the recruitment advertisement under which he was appointed.

According to university authorities, Ziaur holds bachelor's and master's degrees in Islamic studies, along with MPhil and PhD degrees in music. However, the recruitment advertisement required teachers in the Department of Music to have bachelor's and master's degrees in music.

In another decision, the Syndicate extended the closing time of the university's female dorms by one hour. Their gates will now close at 11pm instead of 10pm.

The university also formed a committee to consider and address various demands raised by female students.