BCB responds after Jahanara Alam accuses former selector of sexual harassment

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The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has issued a firm response following serious sexual harassment allegations made by fast bowler Jahanara Alam against former selector Manjurul Alam. In an explosive interview, Jahanara accused Manjurul of inappropriate behavior during the 2022 ICC Women’s World Cup, further claiming that other officials within the BCB also acted improperly.

Jahanara revealed that several female players faced similar misconduct but chose to remain silent out of fear of losing their places in the team or facing career setbacks. Her revelations have triggered a massive outcry, prompting the BCB to take swift and decisive action.

Responding to the allegations, BCB President Aminul Islam announced that the board has adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of sexual harassment within its ranks. The BCB has also launched an official investigation, forming a special inquiry committee that has been directed to submit its findings within 15 working days.

“You’ve asked a question, and here’s my reply – zero tolerance. Thank you,” Aminul stated firmly when questioned about the board’s stance.

Aminul emphasized that no one within the organization – not even top officials – will be spared if found guilty. “If the allegations were against me, they would investigate me as well. If the committee recommended my removal, I would have to step aside. There will be zero tolerance, whether it’s the president, a director, or any staff member,” he asserted.

As part of its immediate measures, the BCB has reassigned four staff members connected to the women’s team to special duties pending the investigation’s outcome. The inquiry committee, comprising both independent experts and senior BCB officials, has been instructed to ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability during the probe.

Aminul reiterated that due process must be followed, ensuring that the investigation protects the integrity of all involved while delivering justice. “Even the Prime Minister of this country isn’t above such rules,” he said, underscoring that the matter was one of principle, not power.

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The Bangladesh government has also stepped in to support the investigation. Through its sports advisor, the government pledged full cooperation with the BCB and expressed readiness to involve law enforcement agencies if necessary. Officials confirmed that Jahanara Alam will receive full protection and that her allegations will be treated with the seriousness they deserve.

The sports advisor noted that safeguarding women in sports is a national priority and that incidents of harassment must be eradicated from all levels of Bangladeshi cricket.

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This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.