Investigation report into Jahanara’s sexual harassment allegation submitted to BCB

An independent committee investigating sexual harassment allegations made by cricketer Jahanara Alam against former women’s team selector and manager Manjurul Islam has submitted its report to Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Aminul Islam.

Jahanara first raised the allegation last November. Following the complaint, BCB initially formed a three-member committee, which was later expanded to five members. The committee was headed by Justice Tariq Ul Hakim, with members Barrister Mostafizur Rahman Khan, Barrister Sarwat Siraj Shukla, Professor Dr. Naima Haque, and BCB Women’s Wing Head Rubaba Dowla.

After three deadline extensions, the committee submitted its report today. The report was originally expected within 15 working days, but Jahanara requested additional time to provide her written complaint. The final deadline was set for January 31. The contents of the report have not yet been made public.

Meanwhile, the High Court recently issued a rule asking why BCB and other relevant authorities failed to ensure a safe, harassment-free, and gender-sensitive environment for women cricketers. The court directed BCB to implement an effective mechanism to prevent sexual harassment and to protect the fundamental rights of women athletes.

This follows a 2008 writ petition filed to prevent sexual harassment in workplaces and educational institutions, which led to a High Court ruling in 2009 including formal guidelines on the matter.

The investigation report will now be evaluated by BCB as part of the next steps in addressing the allegations.