BCB inquiry finds misconduct evidence against Monjurul in Jahanara allegations

The Independent Inquiry Committee formed to examine allegations raised by former Bangladesh women’s team captain Jahanara Alam has found prima facie evidence of inappropriate conduct by former selector and team manager Monjurul Islam.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) said the committee examined four specific allegations made by Jahanara. Two of those allegations could not be substantiated by the available evidence.

However, in relation to the remaining two allegations, the committee found evidence of inappropriate conduct by Monjurul. As a result, the BCB has engaged its legal team to address the findings in line with the board’s zero-tolerance policy on harassment and misconduct.

“The committee noted behaviour inconsistent with professional standards, and observed that certain actions fell within the definition of misconduct and harassment under the applicable guidelines of the Supreme Court,” the press release said.

“…The board is committed to pursuing appropriate actions and measures in accordance with its regulations and applicable law,” it added.

The BCB also announced the formation of a Complaint Committee, headed by BCB Director and Chairperson of the Women’s Wing Committee, Rubaba Dowla.

“Simultaneously, the BCB has strengthened its institutional safeguards through the adoption of a BCB Complaint Committee in accordance with the High Court Division’s 2009 judgment,” the statement read. “In addition, the committee has been entrusted with working towards the establishment of an independent complaint mechanism and the implementation of mandatory awareness training to ensure a safe and respectful environment across Bangladesh cricket.”

The BCB had earlier, on November 8 last year, formed a three-member inquiry committee to investigate the harassment allegations raised by Jahanara. Two more members were later added to the panel.

After nearly three months of inquiry, the committee formally submitted its report to BCB president Aminul Islam Bulbul on February 2.