Sports federations asked to form committees to prevent sexual harassment

The National Sports Council has directed all sports federations and associations, including the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), to form committees to prevent sexual harassment. The directive was issued on Thursday.

According to the circular, each federation or association must form a five-member committee, including at least three female members, and submit the list to the National Sports Council by November 19.

The directive mentioned that in 2009, the High Court Division formulated guidelines on the prevention and redress of sexual harassment in educational institutions and workplaces. Based on that, the National Sports Council has instructed sports bodies to form similar committees.

It said that victims of harassment should submit complaints to their respective committees. If any federation fails to act or the victim is dissatisfied with the resolution, they can lodge a complaint directly with the National Sports Council.

Recently, Bangladesh women’s cricketer Jahanara Alam accused former BCB selector and team manager Manjurul Islam Manju of sexual harassment. Following her allegations, several others also came forward with complaints of harassment and unethical conduct. Earlier, women footballers had made similar allegations. The BCB has already formed an investigation committee to look into Jahanara’s complaint.