Tamim calls for probe after Jahanara allegations; Sports Adviser vows 'exemplary punishment'

Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud and former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal have urged strict action on Friday following harassment allegations by ex-national women's skipper Jahanara Alam.

Jahanara, now in Australia, made a shocking revelation that she received indecent proposals from former national pacer Manjurul Islam -- the then-manager and selector -- during the 2022 ICC Women's World Cup, and that her career was affected after she refused.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has formed a committee to investigate the allegations after Jahanara's YouTube interview with Riasad Azim was released on Thursday, with findings expected within 15 working days.

Speaking to Channel24, Sports Adviser Asif said the ministry had contacted the victim and would ensure exemplary punishment if legal action is pursued, calling it a criminal matter.

"If she wishes to pursue legal action… the government will treat the matter with the highest priority and ensure that those involved face exemplary punishment," he said.

Meanwhile, through a Facebook post, Tamim described the allegations as "grave and deeply troubling" and called for an independent investigation outside BCB oversight.

"Such allegations must never be brushed aside. No woman in cricket -- or any sport -- should face this kind of behaviour. A neutral committee must ensure fairness," Tamim said.

Previously, Jahanara had raised concerns about the national team environment, which the BCB initially dismissed. The latest claims have prompted official scrutiny and intensified calls for accountability.

Jahanara has played in 135 international matches for Bangladesh since her debut in 2011.