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Private Universities: A serious debate around academic freedom has emerged in Bangladesh after the dismissal of two university teachers over allegations of blasphemy. The incident has drawn strong criticism from an international human rights organisation, which warned that such actions threaten the core values of free expression, due process, and higher education. The case highlights growing concerns about how universities respond to social pressure, religious sensitivity, and organised protests, particularly in politically and socially fragile environments.

Background of the University Dismissals

The controversy centers on the termination of two faculty members from the University of Asia Pacific, a well-known private institution located in Dhaka. The teachers, Assistant Professor Layeka Bashir and Associate Professor ASM Mohsin, were affiliated with the Department of Basic Sciences and Humanities. Mohsin also held the position of department head. Their dismissal on January 18 followed allegations of blasphemy that reportedly arose from personal opinions expressed on social media platforms.

According to available information, protests by groups of students and organised mobs created intense pressure on the university administration. Instead of allowing institutional mechanisms to function independently, the authorities moved swiftly to terminate the two teachers’ employment, even though an internal investigation process was still ongoing at the time.

Response from an International Human Rights Organisation

The incident was strongly condemned by Justice Makers Bangladesh in France, an international human rights organisation based in Paris. The organisation described the dismissals as a clear violation of due process and fundamental human rights standards. It argued that removing teachers without completing a transparent investigation undermines trust in academic institutions and weakens the rule of law.

The organisation emphasized that the teachers were not given a fair opportunity to defend themselves. This, it said, directly contradicts the principles enshrined in the Constitution of Bangladesh as well as international legal frameworks such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Concerns About Due Process and Rule of Law

One of the most troubling aspects of the case, according to rights advocates, is that the decision to dismiss the teachers was taken while an investigation committee was still working. Ending employment before the conclusion of such a process raises serious questions about procedural fairness and institutional integrity.

By bypassing established legal and administrative procedures, the university administration set an example that could encourage similar actions elsewhere. Human rights observers argue that when institutions act under pressure rather than evidence, justice becomes arbitrary and selective, eroding confidence in educational governance.

Impact on Academic Freedom and Expression

The dismissal has broader implications beyond the individuals involved. Academic freedom depends on the ability of teachers and researchers to think critically, debate ideas, and express opinions without fear of retaliation. Labeling educators as hostile to religion based on personal views, and then mobilizing public outrage against them, creates an environment of fear.

The human rights organisation warned that if such practices continue, academics across Bangladesh may begin to self-censor. Research, teaching quality, and open intellectual exchange could suffer as educators avoid sensitive topics to protect their careers and personal safety.

Statements from Human Rights Leadership

The issue was addressed publicly by Robert John Paul Simon, Chief Advisor of the organisation. He stated that branding teachers as Islamophobic, encouraging mob action, and forcing dismissals through administrative decisions sends a deeply alarming message. According to him, it shows that appeasing organised aggression has taken precedence over protecting educators and upholding institutional responsibility.

Such statements underline the concern that violence or threats of unrest are increasingly influencing administrative decisions in educational spaces, which should ideally remain neutral and protected environments for learning.

Risks to Bangladesh’s Education System

The organisation stressed that the incident is not only an injustice to two individuals but also a warning sign for the entire education system in Bangladesh. If teachers can be removed without fair hearings, universities risk losing credibility both nationally and internationally.

In the long term, this trend could discourage talented academics from joining or remaining in Bangladeshi institutions. It could also damage the country’s reputation as a place where higher education and intellectual freedom are respected.

Calls for Accountability and Independent Investigation

The human rights body has demanded the immediate suspension and revocation of the dismissal decision. It also called for the formation of an independent, impartial, and transparent investigation commission that meets international standards. Ensuring the safety, dignity, and professional rights of the accused teachers was highlighted as a critical priority.

The organisation concluded by warning that justice cannot be decided by mob sentiment. Unless the misuse of religious accusations to silence dissent is actively resisted, the country risks deepening social division, normalising fear, and encouraging further violence.