College Teachers and Students Protest 'False Cases' by Former Principal

Teachers, staff, and students of Kazi Sirajul Islam Women's College in Faridpur's Boalmari formed a human chain on Thursday afternoon to protest alleged false theft and robbery cases filed against five teachers and two staff members.

The cases were filed by the college's former principal, Md. Farid Ahmed.

Speaking at the protest outside the college, acting principal Dr. Hosneyara Begum accused Farid Ahmed of intentionally disrupting the institution's educational environment. She stated that the former principal, who is currently suspended, filed the cases to harass and defame current staff members.

Dr. Begum alleged that during the previous government's tenure, Farid Ahmed misused his political connections to dominate the institution. She accused him of embezzling college funds and forcing teachers and students to attend political events.

Following his suspension over proven administrative irregularities, Farid Ahmed reportedly went into hiding before recently returning to file the contested lawsuits.

College president Syeda Dil Ashrafi and associate professors Md. A. Mannan and Azahar Ali also addressed the gathering, demanding immediate relief from the harassment.

When contacted, Boalmari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) SM Rafibul Hasan confirmed he is aware of the situation. "I will investigate the matter shortly alongside the Upazila Education Officer and take necessary action," he told reporters.