A deeply troubling picture has emerged in the countryโs education sectorโsix teachers have died, yet not a single incident has seen justice delivered. These deaths are not being viewed as isolated or natural; rather, allegations suggest that humiliation, fear, and psychological trauma following events after August 2024 played a significant role.
Paramesh Chandra, principal of South East College in Feni, died of cardiac arrest. Abdul Khaleq, a headteacher from Dohar in Dhaka, passed away while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dhanmondi. Ayub, vice principal of Hazera Taju College in Chattogram, also died under similar circumstances. Reports indicate that all of them had previously been victims of organized harassmentโforced resignation, public humiliation, and expulsion from their campuses by groups of people.
The case of headteacher Rezaul Karim in Habiganj highlights the severity of the situation. He collapsed unconscious in his office while a group of outsiders stormed in and shouted at him. The incident was broadcast live on social media by a mob leader, symbolizing the disturbing trendโwhile a teacher lay critically ill, those responsible were busy attracting viewers online.
In Kishoreganj, headteacher Abubakar Siddique faced an attack on his home, including brick-throwing, forcing him and his family to flee. He later suffered a stroke. Although 19 allegations and a case involving alleged embezzlement of 2 million taka were filed against him, an investigation committee found no evidence supporting any of the claims. By then, however, the damage had already been done.
According to a memorandum submitted to the Ministry of Education in February 2025, around 3,500 teachers were harassed, incidents occurred in approximately 2,500 educational institutions, and over 500 teachers were injured or fell ill. Despite these documented reports reaching the government, there has been no visible or effective action taken, according to critics.
There are also indications that many of these incidents were not spontaneous but organized. In several cases, internal conflicts within institutions, political influence, and involvement of outsiders played a role, making the situation more complex.
The role of the administration has also come under scrutiny. In one incident in Shariatpur, instead of ensuring justice, officials arranged a โcompromiseโ between the victim and the attackers. Critics argue that such actions reflect systemic failureโwhere justice was expected, mediation took its place.
Analysts say these incidents are not just personal tragedies but a serious blow to the safety and dignity of the education sector. They warn that without prompt, impartial investigations and accountability, the crisis may deepen further.
At present, a critical question remains: how prepared is the state to ensure the safety of teachers? And when will justice be delivered for those who have already paid the ultimate price?
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