Khulna University administration has suspended Professor Dr Rubel Ansar of the Bengali Department for two years following allegations of sexual harassment by a female student.

The information was disclosed on Sunday in a letter issued by the university’s acting registrar Professor Dr SM Mahbubur Rahman.

According to university sources, in August last year, a female student accused Professor Rubel Ansar of indecent behavior, sexual harassment, and proposing an unethical relationship.

Shortly afterward, another female student from a different department submitted a similar complaint.

A seven-member committee was formed to investigate both allegations.

On December 26, the Sexual Harassment Prevention Center of the university submitted two separate reports to the committee.

Both reports were adopted at the university’s 234th syndicate meeting on December 28.

Professor Dr SM Mahbubur Rahman said the syndicate, based on the committee’s recommendations, decided to relieve Professor Rubel Ansar from one of the allegations.

Regarding the second allegation, he has been suspended from all teaching, examination, and administrative duties in the Bengali Department for the next two years.

The registrar added that although Professor Rubel Ansar is barred from classes and examinations, he will continue to receive his salary and other benefits during the suspension period.

When contacted, Professor Rubel Ansar said he had received the university’s letter and would comment on the matter later.