'Zero Tolerance' – BCB vows strong action after Jahanara Alam’s sexual harassment revelations

The Bangladesh Cricket Board took a strong step in the wake of revelations by cricketer Jahanara Alam of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior by a senior official. Her statements have shocked the cricket community and brought attention to the issue of safety and respect in women’s cricket.

In an interview with journalist Riasad Azim, Jahanara said that Manjurul Alam, a former Bangladesh pacer and women’s team manager during the 2022 ICC Women’s World Cup, made “offensive requests” and behaved wrongly toward her. Her revelation brought widespread concern and invoked immediate action on the part of the BCB.

The BCB, following her interview, announced the probe into the matter and subsequently formed a special committee to investigate the allegations. The board has asked the committee to submit a detailed report within 15 working days to ensure fairness and transparency.

BCB President Emphasizes ‘Zero-Tolerance’ Stance

Speaking to reporters, BCB President Aminul Islam reiterated the board’s uncompromising approach to misconduct within the organization. “You’ve asked a question, and here’s my reply: zero tolerance. Thank you,” he said firmly. Aminul emphasized that while the BCB will not tolerate any form of harassment or misconduct, it will also ensure that due process is followed and that both the accused and the complainant receive fair treatment.

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He further added, “If the allegations are true, they will not be tolerated. But at the same time, since such investigations touch upon someone's personal life, it can also harm them if the allegations turn out to be false. So, at least five to seven days should be given to them.” The president also made it clear that this policy applies to everyone, including himself and all board directors. “For example, if the allegations were against me, they would carry out a full investigation against me as well. If the investigators recommended my removal, then I would have to step aside too. There will be zero tolerance, whether it's the president, a board director, or any employee,” he stated.

To preserve the integrity of the investigation, the BCB has temporarily reassigned four officials associated with the women’s team, manager SM Golam Faiyaz, physio Suraiya Akter, coach Mahmum Emon, and official Sarfaraz Baby, to special duties until the inquiry is complete.