DU suspends Prof Zeenat Huda over July Uprising-related allegation

Dhaka University has temporarily suspended Professor Zeenat Huda of the Department of Sociology following an investigation into allegations of her opposition to the July Uprising and complaints from students of her department.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the university’s highest policymaking body, the Syndicate, on Wednesday night (30 September), based on the recommendations of an investigation committee.

Dhaka University Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Administration) Professor Mohammed Almujaddade Alfasane confirmed the matter to The Business Standard today (1 October).

Professor Alfasane said an investigation committee had been formed over Professor Huda’s alleged opposition to the July Uprising and following complaints from students.

The committee found her guilty, and the university decided to temporarily suspend her based on its recommendations, he said.

He also said a tribunal would be formed against Professor Huda in accordance with university rules.

Speaking to The Business Standard about her suspension, Professor Huda said the six allegations against her were politically motivated, false and fabricated.

She said she is the general secretary of the teachers’ association and that the authorities had failed to hold an election for two years.

She alleged that the suspension was intended to take control of the teachers’ association and remove her from the position of department chairperson.