The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has engaged its legal team after an independent inquiry found prima facie evidence related to allegations raised by former Bangladesh women’s team captain Jahanara Alam, the board confirmed on February 2. The move follows the submission of a detailed report by a five-member inquiry committee tasked with examining claims of misconduct involving a former team official.
Jahanara, one of Bangladesh’s most prominent women cricketers, had alleged sexual harassment by a member of the women’s team management during her time with the national side. The allegations, made public in late 2025, prompted widespread debate and led the BCB to constitute an independent inquiry panel to assess the claims.
The inquiry committee was formed in November 2025 and was chaired by Justice Tariq ul Hakim, a former judge of the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. The other members were Professor Dr Naima Huq, former Chair of the Law Department at the University of Dhaka and a member of the Bangladesh Law Commission; Barrister Muhammed Mustafizur Rahman Khan, Senior Advocate of the Supreme Court; Barrister Sarwat Siraj Shukla, Senior Advocate and President of the Bangladesh Women’s Sports Association; and Rubaba Dowla, Director of the BCB.
The committee examined four specific allegations and submitted its report to the board on February 2, 2026. According to the BCB, two of the allegations could not be substantiated due to a lack of supporting evidence. However, the committee found prima facie evidence in relation to the remaining two allegations, indicating conduct that could amount to misconduct and harassment under applicable guidelines.
In a formal statement issued after receiving the report, the BCB said, “In view of the report of the Independent Inquiry Committee, the Board has engaged its Legal Team to address the findings in line with the BCB’s zero-tolerance policy on harassment and misconduct. The Board is committed to pursuing appropriate actions and measures in accordance with its regulations and applicable law,”
The individual named in the report, Md Monjurul Islam, previously served as a selector and team manager for the Bangladesh women’s side. His contractual engagement with the BCB ended in June 2025. The inquiry committee also stated that “The Committee noted behaviour inconsistent with professional standards and observed that certain actions fell within the definition of misconduct and harassment under the applicable guidelines of the Supreme Court.”
Alongside the legal review, the BCB also announced institutional measures aimed at strengthening player protection. The board confirmed the formation of a BCB Complaint Committee, chaired by Rubaba Dowla, to establish an independent complaint mechanism and implement awareness and training programmes across Bangladesh cricket. The issue has also drawn judicial attention.
Earlier this month, the Bangladesh High Court issued a rule asking the BCB to explain what steps it had taken in response to the allegations and why its actions should not be declared unlawful. The court stressed the importance of enforcing sexual harassment prevention guidelines within sporting institutions.
While the inquiry did not uphold all of Jahanara Alam’s claims, the findings have underscored concerns regarding governance, accountability and player welfare within the women’s game. The BCB’s decision to involve its legal team marks a critical phase in determining the next course of action.
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