A disturbing case has emerged from Rajshahi University (Rabi), where an associate professor of the Department of Agronomy and Agricultural Extension, Dulal Ali Molla, has been accused of attempting to sexually assault a female student. The complaint was formally lodged at Chandrima Police Station on 4 January 2026, but the allegations became public on the night of Monday, 12 January.
According to the FIR, the victim had been in a personal and romantic relationship with Professor Molla since 2021. Over time, discussions between the families regarding marriage also took place. On the night of 27 December, between approximately 8 and 9 pm, the professor reportedly took the woman to his rented apartment in the Padma Residential Area, citing his mother’s illness as a reason for the meeting.
The FIR alleges that, taking advantage of the absence of others in the apartment, Professor Molla repeatedly attempted to sexually assault the woman. In the early hours of 28 December, he reportedly fled the apartment but returned later with a female accomplice disguised as his “wife” and three other individuals. During this second visit, the complainant alleges she was physically and mentally abused. When the victim fell ill due to the ordeal, the accused allegedly left her alone, cutting off gas and water supplies. She was subsequently rescued by her family members.
The complainant has confirmed that she has filed the case with the police and informed the university authorities. “Communication between both parties has begun in pursuit of resolution, with senior family members attempting to mediate,” she said.
Efforts to contact Professor Molla via his mobile phone were unsuccessful.
University officials have commented on the case:
| Authority | Statement |
|---|---|
| Dr. Md. Mostafizur Rahman, Department Head | “We have heard about the incident verbally. No formal notification has been received from the police or university. He is on a month-long medical leave and currently not present in the department.” |
| Professor Dr. Mahbubur Rahman, Proctor | “The complainant has spoken to us verbally but has not submitted a written complaint. Therefore, no formal action has been taken by the university.” |
| OC Md. Emran Hossain, Chandrima Police Station | “The case is under investigation. The accused is currently at large and has not yet been apprehended.” |
| Investigator Masud Rana | “Investigation is ongoing and efforts are being made to arrest the accused. No action has yet been taken on campus.” |
The case has prompted heightened scrutiny regarding student safety and administrative accountability at Rabi. Law enforcement authorities have confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, and steps are being taken to ensure the swift arrest of the accused.
This incident has also sparked wider concern about the protection of students within academic institutions and the responsibilities of universities in handling allegations of sexual misconduct.