PSTU Moves Against 11 Teachers over Anti-State Allegations; 1 Assistant Professor Suspended

Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) authorities have initiated strict legal and administrative proceedings against 11 faculty members over alleged involvement in anti-state activities and unapproved digital platforms. The university administration also issued an urgent notice alerting all teachers, students, officers, and employees to refrain from such actions. The directive was signed today (Wednesday, August 5) by Registrar (Additional Charge) Professor Mohammad Jamal Hossain.

According to the official notification, the platform named 'Bangladesh Public University Progressive Teachers' Society' has allegedly been engaging in anti-state online coordination alongside banned student political wings. The group stands accused of hosting Telegram, WhatsApp, and Messenger conferences with ousted and fugitive former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina—an convict in crimes against humanity—to spread misleading information regarding Bangladesh's constitution, judiciary, and state institutions. Among 404 teachers from 22 public universities involved in these chats, 11 are identified as PSTU faculty. The notice detailed that if allegations are proven, penalties under PSTU Act 2001 and Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules 2018 may result in compulsory retirement or termination.

In a separate office order issued with the Vice-Chancellor's approval, PSTU authorities have temporarily suspended Dr. Muhammad Iqbal Hossain, Assistant Professor of the Department of Plant Pathology. The suspension was enforced on 10 separate charges, including threatening senior faculty members and university officers, pending approval from the Regent Board. Calls to Dr. Iqbal Hossain for comments went unanswered.

The university administration urged all faculty and students to respect the national constitution and judicial hierarchy, calling for responsible actions to maintain academic stability and order.

//DBTech/PKO/SME//