DU professor detained over sexual harassment allegations

A Dhaka University (DU) teacher has been detained by police over allegations of sexually harassing multiple male students.

Dr. Ershad Halim, Professor at the university's Chemistry Department, was picked up from his residence in Shewrapara around 11.00pm on Thursday (13 November).

Mirpur Model Police Station conducted the raid to detain him.

Additionally, DU Proctor, Associate Professor Saifuddin Ahmed, said Dr. Halim was taken in for questioning as part of the investigation. Since he was off campus, prior permission from the university was not required.

The University administration is aware of the matter and monitoring the situation.

Earlier, students from different batches of the Chemistry Department held a press conference accusing the professor of sexually harassing them.

Statements from two alleged victims also surfaced on social media.

According to the complaints, Dr. Halim would turn off room lights, close doors and windows, and force students into unwanted physical contact. Some students alleged he called them to his home with promises of exam assistance and then behaved aggressively.

They also said he threatened them to keep the incidents secret.

Following multiple complaints, both the university administration and law enforcement have launched an investigation. Police said they are verifying the allegations and will take necessary legal action based on their findings.