The High Court has imposed travel restrictions on two former Vice-Chancellors of the National University, Harun-or-Rashid and Md. Moshiur Rahman, amid ongoing investigations into allegations of misconduct and corruption.
The directive was issued on Tuesday by Senior Special Judge Sabbir Foyez of the Dhaka Metropolitan Court following a petition submitted by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). Court bench assistant Riaz Hossain confirmed the development.
The ACC, represented by Deputy Director Muhammad Zainal Abedin, requested the travel ban citing concerns that the former university officials could leave the country before the completion of the inquiry. The petition stated:
“A three-member investigation team has been formed to look into multiple allegations of irregularities and corruption against the two educators. The inquiry is ongoing. Reliable sources indicate that the accused may attempt to travel abroad. In order to ensure a proper and uninterrupted investigation, it is essential to prevent their foreign travel.”
Tenure Overview of the Former Vice-Chancellors
| Name | Tenure | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Harun-or-Rashid | 6 March 2013 – 5 March 2021 | Former Professor of Political Science, University of Dhaka; served two terms as Vice-Chancellor. |
| Md. Moshiur Rahman | May 2021 – 11 August 2024 | Previously Deputy Vice-Chancellor; appointed as Vice-Chancellor in 2021; resigned following political changes in 2024. |
Harun-or-Rashid initially assumed office on 6 March 2013. After completing his first four-year term, he was reappointed in 2017 for a second term, which concluded on 5 March 2021.
Moshiur Rahman, who had served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor, was appointed Vice-Chancellor in May 2021. He tendered his resignation on 11 August 2024, following the fall of the Awami League-led government.
University sources indicate that the ACC investigation team has already begun collecting documents, interviewing witnesses, and analysing financial records connected to the allegations. Once the inquiry is complete, the findings will be submitted to the court, which will then decide on any subsequent legal or administrative action.
The administration of National University has pledged full cooperation with the investigation. Officials emphasised that such measures are critical to ensuring transparency, accountability, and institutional integrity within Bangladesh’s higher education system.
Observers note that imposing travel restrictions on high-ranking educational officials under investigation is an important step in preventing flight risks and safeguarding the credibility of ongoing anti-corruption proceedings.