JU asks teacher to refrain from duties

The authorities of Jahangirnagar University (JU) yesterday asked Sanwar Siraj, an assistant professor of government and politics department, to refrain from all academic and administrative activities temporarily.

This decision came after a female student of the same department accused the teacher of sexual harassment.

JU Vice Chancellor Prof Farzana Islam made the decision by exercising her executive power. The decision was according to the recommendations made by the anti-sexual harassment cell after their first meeting, said JU acting registrar Rahima Kaneez.

Asked, head of the cell, Prof Rasheda Akhtar declined to make any comment in this regard.

On September 19, the victim filed a complaint to the department head, detailing how Sanwar Siraj, who was her course instructor, harassed her.