A major uproar has erupted in Bangladesh cricket. National player Jahanara Alam has accused her former selector and manager Manjurul Alam of serious sexual harassment.
This incident occurred during the 2022 ICC Women’s World Cup in New Zealand, when Manjurul spoke obscenely to Jahanara and asked inappropriate questions about her periods.
Jahanara said in an interview that many other girls have experienced similar problems but remained silent for fear of losing their jobs.
Following this revelation, several former players shared their stories, and the entire cricketing community is shaken.
‘Zero Tolerance’: No one will escape the law!
BCB President Aminul Islam has clearly stated that the board has a ‘zero tolerance’ policy.
He said in the press conference, “You’ve asked a question, and here’s my answer—zero tolerance. Thank you.”
Aminul also made it clear that anyone found guilty, be it a director or a coach, will be punished.
“Even the Prime Minister of this country isn’t exempt from such rules. We’re just ordinary directors. If I go and harass someone, and it’s proven to be true, then I’m just an ordinary director—not above the law,”
he said. The board has immediately formed a three-member committee, headed by retired Justice Tariq Ul Hakim.
The other members are Rubaba Doula and Barrister Sarwat Siraj Shukla. This committee has to submit its report within 15 working days.
Meanwhile, according to a report, the BCB has suspended four officials associated with women’s cricket—manager S.M.
Golam Fayaz, physio Suraiya Akhtar, coach Mahmood Emon, and coordinator Sarfaraz Babu – have been placed on special duty to allow the investigation to continue.
Facilities Committee Director Shanian Tanim, sitting with Aminul, said,
“Whether it’s an employee or a director, the investigation will cover everyone involved. If the committee recommends action, it will be implemented immediately. There will be no special treatment for anyone.”
This step shows that the board is serious and will take action quickly.
The investigation will reveal the truth, but in a fair manner.
Now the question is what the investigation reveals. Aminul said that if the allegations are true, they will not be tolerated, but that a fake case should not tarnish anyone’s name.
“If the allegations are true, they will not be tolerated. But since such investigations touch upon personal lives, it can harm those falsely accused. So they should be given five to seven days to defend themselves,”
he added. The BCB’s official statement also says the same:
“The BCB is committed to ensuring a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all its players and personnel. The board takes such matters with utmost seriousness and will take appropriate action based on the findings.”
Manjurul has described the allegations as “baseless” and “fabricated.”
The case has become a topic of debate in Bangladesh cricket circles. People are demanding reforms in the system and greater accountability.
The investigation committee’s report could change the culture and governance of women’s cricket.
Currently, four officials are on special duty, and the board has promised to provide a safe environment to the players.
