No evidence of irregularities found in BCB election

The investigation committee formed to probe allegations of irregularities in the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) election has submitted its report, with no individuals indicted. Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Haque said the report will be sent to the International Cricket Council (ICC).

The probe committee, led by retired Supreme Court judge AKM Asaduzzaman, submitted the report to the National Sports Council (NSC) on Sunday, April 5. Speaking after inspecting BKSP, the state minister said an inter-ministerial meeting was held immediately after receiving the report, and the next course of action will be decided after informing the ICC.

The report has reportedly found no evidence of major irregularities against the current BCB board, easing concerns about the board's dissolution for now.

Regarding former youth and sports adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan's failure to appear before the committee, the state minister said his absence has been noted and verified. A final decision will be announced after consultation with the ICC.

The committee head, Justice AKM Asaduzzaman, told reporters after submitting the report, "We tried to remain neutral and questioned those whose involvement we found. We have submitted a neutral report on what we found regarding the election without accusing anyone. Once you see the report, you will understand its contents."

The committee recommended amending the BCB constitution to ensure free and fair elections in the future. "We have made some recommendations - you can see them in the report. If the board considers them appropriate, they may act on them," Asaduzzaman said.

Asif Mahmud explained on Facebook why he did not respond to the committee's request for an interview, citing concerns over jurisdiction and ongoing court proceedings. He argued the ministry was investigating an autonomous body beyond its mandate and the matter was sub judice in the High Court.

The five-member committee, formed on March 11, submitted the report within its 15-working-day deadline. It included additional secretary of the youth and sports ministry, DMP joint commissioner, a sports journalist and a Supreme Court advocate.