The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has once again reiterated its zero-tolerance attitude towards any sexual harassment complaint or misconduct involving women cricketers. The statement came from BCB President Aminul Islam on Sunday, when he outlined that no irrespective of rank and position-will be spared if found guilty following an ongoing investigation.
Background: Scandal of Misbehaviour Shocks Bangladesh Women’s Cricket
The controversy arose after senior women’s cricketer Jahanara Alam accused former national pacer Manjurul Alam of sexual harassment during the 2022 ICC Women’s World Cup in New Zealand.
Her disclosures prompted a number of other ex-female cricketers to present parallel stories, which led to the BCB acting quickly to form an independent committee to investigate these claims.
Formation of Investigation Committee
The BCB established a high-profile committee comprised of Retired Justice Tariq ul Hakim, a former judge of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, and a host of other prominent professionals to ensure that fairness and transparency prevailed.
Rubaba Dowla, BCB Director
Barrister Sarwat Siraj Shukla, Senior Advocate, Supreme Court of Bangladesh
The committee will review all reports of sexual harassment and compile a comprehensive report with suggested action.
BCB Officials Placed on Special Duty – OSD
The BCB, in an interim measure, initially put four officials associated with women’s cricket on special duty, or OSD. Those affected include:
S M Golam Faiyaz, Team Manager
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Suraiya Akter, Physio
Mahmud Emon, Coach
Sarfaraz Babu, Administrative Official
This shows the commitment on the part of the board to uphold integrity and to create a safe space for women cricketers.
BCB President Aminul Islam: ‘Zero Tolerance Means Zero Tolerance’
President Aminul Islam made the following comment when asked about the position of the BCB in regard to sexual harassment complaints:
“You’ve asked a question, and here’s my reply zero tolerance. Thank you.”
He further said that the BCB will give the investigation panel enough time to complete the probe and come up with a conclusive report. “No one will be spared if the accusations are proven true,” Aminul reiterated.
Directors Support Transparency and Accountability
Sitting next to the president, BCB Director Shanian Taneem reiterated what Aminul said: No employee or director is above the law.
He elaborated that the investigation committee is fully empowered to recommend any disciplinary action, including against board directors if needed.
“Whether it’s an employee or a director, there’s an investigation committee responsible for decisions,” said Taneem.
“If they tell us tomorrow that four employees need to be placed on OSD, we will do it. Even if allegations are made against a director, there will be a full investigation no exceptions.”
Fair Process and Right to Defense
Taneem further emphasized due process, citing the need to provide the person accused of misconduct with an appropriate opportunity to defend themselves. Allegations can damage personal lives. The accused also have families, and they deserve five to seven days to prove themselves right.
Justice must be balanced both for the victim and the accused. He further added, “Even the Prime Minister isn’t above such rules. So if a director is found guilty, they will be punished. It’s not about status; it’s all about principle.”
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