BCB to investigate Jahanara Alams sexual harassment allegations against former selector

New Delhi: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has decided to form a committee to probe serious allegations made by former national team fast bowler Jahanara Alam, who has accused a former selector of inappropriate behaviour during the 2022 Women's ODI World Cup. The committee has been asked to submit its findings and recommendations within 15 working days.

In a statement released late on Thursday night, the board said it would take necessary action once the investigation concludes. "The Bangladesh Cricket Board has noted with concern the allegations reported in the media made by a former member of the Bangladesh national women's cricket team regarding alleged misconduct by certain individuals associated with the team," the statement read. The BCB emphasised its commitment to maintaining a "safe, respectful and professional environment” for all its players and staff.

The move comes after Jahanara, who currently resides in Australia, spoke in detail during an interview with journalist Riasad Azim. She alleged that she was subjected to indecent proposals from former selector and manager Manjurul Islam during the 2022 World Cup.

Jahanara claimed that Manjurul’s behavior toward her turned hostile after she rejected his alleged advances. She also accused other BCB officials including the late Towhid Mahmud and board staffer Sarfaraz Babu, of inappropriate conduct. According to her, despite repeatedly informing former women’s committee head Shafiul Islam Nadel and BCB CEO Nizamuddin Chowdhury, no action was taken.

Speaking on the Riasad Azim YouTube channel, Jahanara said, "I faced indecent proposals several times, not just once. When it’s your livelihood and you are part of the system, it’s very hard to speak up. But I’m speaking now so that other girls can feel safe to come forward.” She described one incident during the World Cup where Manjurul allegedly made personal and disturbing comments toward her while she was bowling in the nets.

The former captain also detailed how she tried to formally report the matter through what she termed an "Observation Letter” to the BCB’s CEO outlining incidents that had occurred over a year and a half.