In a bold and emotionally charged move, the University Teachers’ Network has issued a powerful demand: the immediate reinstatement of two faculty members from the University of Asia Pacific (UAP), whose dismissals they label as 'a shameful surrender to mob intimidation and a blatant attack on academic freedom.' But here's where it gets controversial—while the university claims these actions were necessary, educators and advocates argue they represent a dangerous precedent that undermines due process and intellectual autonomy in higher education. And this is the part most people miss: the broader implications for academic security and free expression in institutions worldwide.
The call for justice was made during a press conference at the Jatiya Press Club, where a detailed statement was read aloud by concerned teachers. The network vehemently protested the termination of Layeqa Bashir, an assistant professor of sociology, and ASM Mohsin, an associate professor and former director of the Directorate of Student Welfare. Both educators were dismissed under circumstances that have sparked widespread outrage and debate.
In their statement, the network outlined a four-point demand: first, the immediate reinstatement of both teachers; second, an end to the harassment of educators and students who dared to speak out against the decision; third, accountability and punishment for those involved in organized intimidation and baseless accusations; and fourth, the implementation of clear policies to safeguard job security, due process, and academic freedom in universities. Here’s the kicker—these demands aren’t just about two individuals; they’re a rallying cry for systemic change in how universities handle dissent and controversy.
Layeqa Bashir found herself at the center of a storm after a Facebook post, which the statement clarifies was motivated by security concerns rather than religious bias. However, a group of current and former students misinterpreted the post as offensive to religious sentiments, launching a relentless campaign of online harassment, much of it fueled by anonymous and fake accounts. Despite issuing a clarification, Layeqa faced mounting pressure, culminating in the university administration allegedly demanding her resignation over the phone without proper investigation. Is this fair? Many argue it’s a clear failure of institutional support and due process.
Fearing for her safety, Layeqa filed a report with the Tejgaon Police Station, prompting the university to form an inquiry committee. However, the inquiry process itself has been heavily criticized. The committee relied on a Google Form to gather complaints, receiving around 34 anonymous responses—a method that made verification nearly impossible. And this raises a critical question—how can justice be served when the accusers remain hidden behind a veil of anonymity?
ASM Mohsin’s case is equally troubling. He was dismissed without a show-cause notice or formal investigation, reportedly after being labeled a supporter of the former Awami League regime. This accusation seems particularly ironic given his documented role in standing with students during the July uprising. Is this political retribution disguised as administrative action? The network certainly thinks so, and they’re demanding answers.
The press conference was attended by prominent figures, including economist Anu Muhammad, Professor Samina Luthfa of Dhaka University, and Professor Mirza Taslima Sultana of Jahangirnagar University. Other notable attendees included Kajalie Shehreen Islam and Shamali Shill, associate professors from Dhaka University and Jagannath University, respectively, as well as Kamal Uddin Ahmed Chowdhury, a professor at Dhaka University, and Tanvir Sobhan, a senior lecturer at BRAC University. Their presence underscored the gravity of the issue and the solidarity among educators.
Now, here’s where we want to hear from you—do you believe universities should prioritize protecting academic freedom, even when it leads to controversy, or should they yield to public pressure to maintain peace? Let us know in the comments below, and let’s spark a conversation that could shape the future of higher education.
