Professor Dr. Delwar Hossain of the Department of Soil Science at Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) has formally protested against recent statements made by the university’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor. He described the remarks as "fabricated" and an "intentional distortion" of administrative facts.
In a signed statement issued on Friday (16 January), Professor Delwar challenged the Pro-VC’s media comments from 10 January 2026, alleging they were designed to mislead the public and discredit him personally.
The core of the dispute involves a 2025 procurement contract for the Faculty of Agriculture. Pro-VC’s Claim: Alleged a tender worth Tk 9 million with a 55% fund withholding. Professor Delwar’s Clarification: Stated the actual tender value was Tk 892,114—less than one-tenth of the claimed amount.
Professor Delwar clarified that the contract was awarded to Messrs Tawhid Enterprise following a standard review by the university’s Technical and Assessment Committees. He noted that the process was fully supervised by university-appointed officials under the then-Dean, Professor Dr. Purnendu Bishwas.
The statement further detailed that after deducting the mandatory 10% VAT and 5% tax (totaling 15%), a payment of Tk 758,297 was approved for the supplier.
"The claim of a 55% deduction is baseless and unrealistic," Professor Delwar stated. He added that because the Finance and Accounts Department issues cheques directly to suppliers after audits, there is no opportunity for individuals to withhold funds.
Describing the Pro-VC’s remarks as a breach of administrative decorum, Professor Delwar argued that such comments damage the university’s reputation and the integrity of the teaching community. He demanded an unconditional public apology and the immediate withdrawal of the misleading statements.
