Sexual Harassment
Madrasa girls demand removal of teacher
Students of Khan A Sabur Mahila Madrasa run by Khulna City Corporation (KCC) formed human chains followed by protest demonstrations in front of the madrasa on Sunday and yesterday demanding removal of and legal action against their teacher Moulana Mizanur Rahman for his alleged sexual harassment.
Demanding the same, they have continued boycotting classes since January 13.
Guardians and other teachers have also warned of joining the movement of students demanding removal of the alleged teacher.
Moulana Mizanur Rahman, an Arabic teacher of the madrasa, was placed under suspension on the basis of a probe report submitted by the additional deputy commissioner (Education) of Khulna on March 13 last year.
This action was taken as allegations of sexual harassment and other malpractices against Mizanur Rahman were found true during investigation.
The probe into allegations against Mizanur Rahman was ordered following a petition submitted by 20 teachers of the madrasa on November 1 in 2009.
The teachers also wrote several letters to the chairman of Madrasa Education Board demanding Mizanur Rahman's removal from service.
Students started boycotting their classes on January 13 this year as the suspended teacher was reinstated in his service on January 12 by order of madrasa Principal Moulana Abdus Sobhan, ignoring recommendations of the probe report.
Besides, Principal Abdus Sobhan and Chairman of madrasa governing body Mostajabul Huq Mostafa are reported to have threatened students of stern action for boycotting of classes.
When contacted, KCC Mayor Talukder Abdul Khaleque admitted to the allegations of sexual harassment against Mizanur Rahman and students' movement by them.
"I have taken the matter seriously as the madrasa is being run by Khulna City Corporation. The crisis would be resolved properly," the mayor said.
Asked about the matter, Principal Moulana Abdus Sobhan said, "Members of the managing committee will sit in a meeting shortly to take final decision about whether the accused teacher should be removed from service or reinstated."
Mizanur Rahman termed the allegations against him as false and refused to comment on recommendations of the probe report.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel.
Comments