Two teachers at the University of Asia Pacific (UAP) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, have been fired amidst accusations of blasphemy and ties to the Awami League. Layeka Bashir and ASM Mohsin, both from the Department of Basic Sciences and Humanities, were relieved of their duties following student demands, as confirmed by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Sadik Hasan Palash.
The dismissals came after allegations that the teachers were sympathetic to the former Awami League government, a claim they deny, attributing the actions to a powerful segment of the university’s senior management. Reports suggest that a group within the university, posing as a movement, pressured the authorities to take action against the teachers.
Social media has seen a strong backlash following the teachers’ removal. ASM Mohsin expressed uncertainty over the reasons for his dismissal, citing accusations of Awami League sympathy and orchestrated movements within the university. Layeka Bashir highlighted intimidation by right-wing students and online threats as factors leading to her forced resignation.
The situation reflects broader concerns in Bangladesh regarding law and order, working conditions, and academic freedom under the current interim government. Issues such as political interference and attacks on dissenting voices have raised alarms among stakeholders and observers.
