| Staff Correspondent: At a time when new appointments to administrative positions in various public universities across the country are drawing widespread discussion, the name of Professor Dr. Mohammad Ilias Siddiqi of the Department of Islamic Studies at University of Chittagong has surfaced in discussions regarding the post of Pro-Vice Chancellor (Pro-VC) at Islamic Arabic University.
The potential appointment has already sparked various controversies and criticisms within academic circles.
According to multiple university-related sources, during the tenure of the Awami League government, Dr. Ilias Siddiqi allegedly expanded his influence by developing close ties with the administrative establishment. In particular, after the publication of his book "Islam O Manobotar Sebay Bangabandhu" (“Bangabandhu in the Service of Islam and Humanity”), he was reportedly regarded as a trusted figure within the ruling political circle. Critics claim that during that period, his influence was visible in teacher recruitment, administrative reshuffles, and various important institutional decisions.
However, following the political changeover, allegations have emerged that he has once again become active.
Relevant quarters claim that Dr. Ilias Siddiqi is currently engaging in communications, lobbying, and influence-building at different levels of government in an effort to secure the Pro-VC position at Islamic Arabic University.
Additionally, it has been alleged that during the Awami League government’s tenure, while serving in responsibilities connected to Islamic Arabic University, accusations regarding recruitment irregularities and administrative misconduct involving him had circulated in various circles. However, no official investigation report regarding these allegations has been published.
Meanwhile, a recommendation letter by former Vice-Chancellor Professor Shirin Akhter of the University of Chittagong has also generated renewed discussion on social media.
In that letter, Dr. Ilias Siddiqi was recommended for appointment as the Vice-Chancellor of Islamic Arabic University. The letter states that Professor Dr. Mohammad Ilias Siddiqi is an experienced professor at the University of Chittagong and former Chairman of the Department of Islamic Studies. He also previously served as the Senior House Tutor (Acting Provost) of Shah Amanat Hall.
The recommendation letter further describes him as a researcher, thinker, distinguished writer, and skilled administrator. It states that after the establishment of Islamic Arabic University, he joined the institution in 2015 on deputation as an Inspector and, from 2015 to 2019, served in various administrative capacities, including founding Inspector, Controller of Examinations, Dean, Acting Vice-Chancellor, Syndicate Member, Academic Council Member, Board of Advanced Studies Member, Finance Committee Member, Planning and Development Committee Member, and Affiliation Committee Member.
The letter also mentions his 287-page book Islam O Manobotar Sebay Bangabandhu and strongly recommends his appointment as Vice-Chancellor of Islamic Arabic University.
According to concerned observers, comments made in the foreword of the book by former State Minister for Education Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury and former University of Chittagong Vice-Chancellor Shirin Akhter suggest that Dr. Ilias Siddiqi was considered one of the trusted intellectuals and close associates of the Awami League government.
Analysts believe that in administrative appointments at an important institution like Islamic Arabic University, the highest priority should be given to academic qualifications, transparency, and acceptability. Otherwise, new controversies and a crisis of confidence may emerge within the country’s higher education system.
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