Suspended for Misconduct: High-Tech Park Project Director Atiqul Faces Disciplinary Action
Atiqul Islam, the Project Director of the IT Training and Incubation Center Establishment (14 centers) project under Sylhet High-Tech Park, has been temporarily suspended for violating employment regulations. The decision was made following an initial investigation that confirmed allegations against him on two specific grounds.
As per the disciplinary action, while he is required to report to his workplace regularly, he will only receive a subsistence allowance.
According to an official letter signed by A. K. M. Amirul Islam, Managing Director of High-Tech Park Authority, Atiqul Islam breached official regulations by appointing himself as the head of the tender evaluation committee in violation of procedural guidelines.
Furthermore, on June 22, 2023, he was found to have stayed in the same room at Jessore Software Technology Park Dormitory with Assistant Engineer Anika Nisha from 11:11 PM to 2:58 AM, and again from 3:02 AM to 5:14 AM.
Sources indicate that Anika Nisha is currently not attending office and is reportedly in the fourth stage of cancer. A formal office order regarding her case is expected within two to three working days.
The letter regarding Atiqul Islam’s suspension was signed on January 29.
Background and Allegations of Corruption
Atiqul Islam hails from Basupur village, Borura upazila, Cumilla, and is the eldest son of Sirajul Islam. In 2011, he was appointed to the High-Tech Park Authority after an age relaxation was granted in recruitment regulations. Allegations suggest that former Director of Administration, Deputy Secretary N. M. Shafiqul Islam, accepted a bribe of BDT 1 million to facilitate his appointment.
Additionally, following the June 2023 incident, an employee named Priyanka, who worked at one of the 11 IT centers, filed several complaints against Atiqul Islam. These allegations included:
- Accumulation of unusual wealth and assets
- Possession of bank accounts with millions of taka
- Conspiring against the former Managing Director of High-Tech Park Authority to have him removed from his position
This case has raised concerns about governance and accountability within the High-Tech Park Authority, prompting calls for greater oversight and transparency.
