Railway Worker Claims Harassment and Unfair Transfer Despite Innocence

A permanent employee of Bangladesh Railway, Md. Abdul Barik, has formally protested allegations made against him by a temporary gatekeeper, Shimla, labeling them as "false and baseless." Barik further alleges that he has been subjected to two punitive transfers despite an internal investigation clearing him of any wrongdoing.

The dispute began on February 25, 2026, when Shimla, a temporary gatekeeper (TLR) at Chinki Astana, filed a written complaint with the Divisional Engineer-1 in Chittagong. She accused Barik of making "malicious suggestions" and interfering in her personal life. Simultaneously, allegations circulated on social media accusing Barik of unauthorized CCTV camera installation.

Barik contends that an online portal published these claims without seeking his comment, severely damaging his professional reputation.

Clarifying the situation, Barik stated that because they worked at the same station, Shimla often shared family grievances with him and his wife. He claims they initially tried to mediate her domestic disputes but eventually withdrew when the situation worsened. He believes the subsequent allegations are "propaganda" fueled by local political opponents.

Following the complaint, the Divisional Engineer-1 formed an investigation committee on March 3. The probe included statements from Shimla, other workers at the T/30 level crossing, and Barik himself. The investigation concluded that the CCTV cameras in the gate room were installed with the consent of all temporary workers, who even had access to the feeds on their phones. Consequently, the committee found no evidence of Barik’s involvement and cleared him of the charges.

Despite being exonerated, Barik was transferred twice in quick succession—first on March 24 and again on March 29 to Laksam. He alleges these transfers were the result of administrative pressure rather than facts. Barik maintains he holds voice recordings and other evidence that prove his innocence and calls for an end to the administrative harassment.