New Delhi/Dhaka: The Bangladesh High Court has raised serious concerns over the handling of women players’ safety by the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), particularly in cases related to sexual harassment.
On Monday, the court issued a rule asking why the failure of the BCB and concerned authorities to ensure a safe and gender-sensitive environment for women cricketers should not be declared “unlawful, without lawful authority, and against public interest.”
According to a report by Bangladesh-based media outlet The Daily Star, the court also directed the BCB to immediately implement its anti-sexual harassment policy in line with earlier judicial guidelines. Until the case is decided, the board has been asked to submit a detailed report on the steps taken to enforce these measures.
Petition and Court Proceedings
The order followed a writ petition filed by former national shooter Sabrina Sultana, seeking stronger safeguards for women athletes.
The directive was issued by a High Court bench comprising Justice Ahmed Sohel and Justice Fatema Anwar, after hearing the petition.
The petitioner’s lawyer, Nasiruddin Ahmed Asim, told the court that allegations of sexual harassment had been raised involving Jahanara Alam, the former captain of the Bangladesh women’s cricket team.
Inquiry Report Still Pending
Following the complaint, the BCB had constituted a three-member independent inquiry committee, which was later expanded to five members. However, the committee’s findings have not been made public so far.
Reports indicate that the board delayed submitting the report on two occasions. Although it was due by January 31, there is still no confirmation on whether it has been formally submitted. The prolonged delay and lack of transparency have drawn criticism and raised doubts about the seriousness of the inquiry.
Reason for Legal Action
Citing these lapses, Sabrina Sultana approached the High Court, seeking clear directions to ensure the protection of women athletes and to hold authorities accountable for inaction.
After the initial hearing, the court issued both the rule and an interim order, signaling its intent to closely monitor the case and the BCB’s response.
The matter is expected to be reviewed further once the board submits its compliance report and the inquiry findings are placed before the court.
