The administration of Jagannath University (JnU) has suspended Md Abusalah Sakender, an assistant professor in the Department of Islamic History, for his alleged role in the student movement following the July uprising. The university cited his involvement in writing columns supporting the Chhatra League after its ban, as well as his opposition to the student movement advocating for anti-discrimination.
The suspension was confirmed through an office order issued on Wednesday, signed by acting registrar Prof Sheikh Giash Uddin. The order references Section 12 of the Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 2018, and Section 11 (10) of the Jagannath University Act, 2005. It was implemented based on reports from the university's Syndicate, which identified Sakender’s actions as being in conflict with the university's regulations.
The office order stated that Sakender’s conduct, particularly in relation to the anti-discrimination student movement, had led to allegations of misconduct and moral degradation. This included complaints from the general student body and the Departmental Academic Committee. As a result, he has been suspended from his university duties.
In addition to the suspension, Sakender has been barred from participating in class examinations following a decision made during a departmental academic meeting. He was also accused of harassment towards a female student, further escalating the controversy.
The suspension has sparked discussions among the student community and faculty members about academic freedom and the university's stance on student activism. The university authorities have yet to comment on whether further actions will be taken.
