The Bangladesh Public University Progressive Teachers Society has strongly protested the temporary suspension and tribunal proceedings against three Dhaka University teachers over allegations that they took a position against the July movement.
In a statement issued on September 1, the organisation expressed deep concern over the suspension of Dhaka University Professor Dr. M. Abiduzzaman, Professor Dr. Md. Masudur Rahman of the Department of Sociology, and Professor Dr. Mahbubur Rahman Liton of the Institute of Education and Research, as well as the decision to form a tribunal against them.
The organisation said it was deeply shocked and angered by the disciplinary measures against the three academics. It described Dhaka University as more than an educational institution, saying it is one of Bangladesh’s key centres of free thought, knowledge, research, progressive ideas and freedom of expression.
According to the statement, taking serious administrative action against renowned teachers for alleged policy violations raises concerns about the democratic and academic environment of the university.
The organisation said it had learned that although representatives of the accused teachers were supposed to have an opportunity to cross-examine the complainant before the university’s investigation committee, Professor Abiduzzaman was repeatedly denied that opportunity despite submitting written applications.
It also criticised the submission of the Syndicate report without the signatures of representatives of the accused teachers, describing the process as deeply disappointing and contrary to the principles of justice.
The organisation claimed that Professor Abiduzzaman had presented evidence showing that the allegations against him were false and baseless. Despite this, it alleged, disciplinary action was taken on the basis of a predetermined decision, which it described as political retaliation or an attempt to suppress dissent.
It warned that such actions could create an intimidating environment at universities across the country and said this would be incompatible with the tradition and dignity of Dhaka University.
The teachers’ organisation emphasised that questioning, debating, expressing opinions and criticising injustice are natural characteristics of a free and democratic university. It said differences of opinion should be resolved through reason, dialogue, tolerance and fair procedures rather than administrative pressure or intimidation.
The organisation called on the Dhaka University administration to reconsider the matter in a fair, transparent and impartial manner. It demanded that the accused teachers be given an opportunity to present their defence in the presence of their representatives before any investigation report is finalised.
It further urged the authorities to ensure that intellectuals who uphold the ideals of freedom are not silenced through administrative harassment or threats of punishment.
The statement was signed by Professor Dr. Purna Islam, Joint General Secretary of the Bangladesh Public University Progressive Teachers Society.
Dhaka , 2nd September
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