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"Zero tolerance": BCB vows strict action after Jahanara Alam’s sexual harassment revelations

Sakshi Sharma

 Jahanara Alam (Source: AFP) Jahanara Alam (Source: AFP)

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has announced a strict 'zero-tolerance' policy after Jahanara Alam revealed sexual harassment and disturbing details of inappropriate behaviour she faced from a senior official.

In an interview with journalist Riasad Azim, Jahanara claimed that Manjurul Alam, a former Bangladesh pacer who also served as the women’s team manager and selector during the 2022 ICC Women’s World Cup, made an 'offensive request' and acted inappropriately toward her.

BCB initiates investigation after Jahanara Alam's revelations

After her confession, the BCB confirmed that it has formed a special inquiry committee to investigate the allegations. The board has instructed the committee to submit its findings within 15 working days.

Speaking to reporters, BCB President Aminul Islam stated the board's firm stance -

“You’ve asked a question, and here’s my reply — zero tolerance. Thank you,” he said briefly. 

Aminul added that while the board will not tolerate misconduct of any kind, it also intends to uphold due process and ensure that every party, including the accused, gets a fair chance to present their side along with Jahanara Alam.

"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," he said.

He also mentioned that zero-tolerance policy applies to everyone in the organisation, including himself and the boards 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 said.

It is important to note that, to maintain the integrity of the probe, the BCB has temporarily reassigned four officials linked to the women’s team manager, SM Golam Faiyaz, physio Suraiya Akter, coach Mahmum Emon, and official Sarfaraz Baby to special duty.