44 IU teachers face probe over alleged anti-state activities

Islamic University (IU) has formed a five-member investigation committee to examine allegations that 44 faculty members were involved in activities deemed anti-state.

The decision was announced in an office order signed by Acting Registrar Prof. Dr. Manjurul Haque on Wednesday (August 5).

The committee has been asked to submit its findings by August 12.

The probe will be led by IU Pro-Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. Emtaz Hossain. Other members include Prof. Dr. Mostafizur Rahman of the Al-Hadith and Islamic Studies Department, Prof. Dr. Rafiqul Islam of the Arabic Language and Literature Department, Supreme Court lawyer and IU panel counsel Dr. Sazzat Hossain, while Deputy Director (Accounts) Israfiul Haque will serve as member secretary.

The move follows a media report published on Tuesday night alleging that 404 teachers from 22 public universities, including 44 from Islamic University, were members of a Telegram group named Bangladesh Public University Progressive Teachers' Society.

The report claimed the group was engaged in efforts to facilitate the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and revive the activities of the banned Awami League.

According to the office order, the committee has been tasked with verifying the allegations, identifying any faculty members found to have engaged in anti-state activities, and recommending appropriate action. It will also investigate whether the accused teachers were involved in suppressing the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement or intimidating students during the previous government.

The university said disciplinary measures would be taken against anyone found guilty in accordance with university service rules and the country's prevailing laws.

Committee chief Prof. Dr. Emtaz Hossain said the investigation would begin on Saturday, adding that the report would be submitted within the stipulated deadline.