Asif promises stern action over Jahanara’s harassment claims

Bangla Press Desk:  Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, Adviser for Youth and Sports of Bangladesh, has said the government will treat the sexual harassment and mental abuse allegations made by former national women’s team captain Jahanara Alam with the utmost seriousness and ensure justice if the claims are proven true.

“Ensuring the safety of women in sports and other areas is our top priority,” Asif told reporters on Friday. “I have watched Jahanara’s interview and spoken with the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). The BCB’s investigative committee will submit its report as soon as possible. We will also speak directly with Jahanara, and if she wishes to pursue legal action, the government will handle it with full gravity.”

He stressed that such misconduct amounts to a criminal offence and assured that anyone found guilty would face exemplary punishment. 

“We will not tolerate any form of harassment or abuse in sports. Those responsible will be held accountable,” he said.

Jahanara, one of Bangladesh’s most prominent women cricketers, accused former selector and team manager Manjurul Islam Manju of sexual harassment and alleged mental abuse by other officials on Thursday. 

BCB has since formed an inquiry committee to investigate the matter, while several senior figures, including former men’s captain Tamim Iqbal, have called for an independent and transparent probe.

BP/SP