Staff Correspondent:

Dhaka University has suspended the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree awarded to former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Benazir Ahmed, citing serious irregularities in the admission process and false academic claims.

The decision was made following a Dhaka University Syndicate meeting, where the findings of an internal inquiry were presented.

The investigation revealed that Benazir was admitted to the DBA program at the Faculty of Business Studies without meeting basic eligibility criteria, including the requirement of securing at least 50% marks in both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

The inquiry committee found discrepancies in Benazir’s application form — including the use of different ink colors for academic information — and concluded that false information was intentionally provided to gain admission.

“He did not qualify for the program under the university’s regulations. The admission was granted in violation of established rules,” the inquiry stated.

The Syndicate has formed a five-member high-level investigation committee to determine how the degree was awarded despite the ineligibility, and to identify those responsible for facilitating the irregular admission.

The committee is chaired by Pro-Vice Chancellor (Academic) Prof. Dr. Mamun Ahmed, and includes the Dean of the Faculty of Law, Syndicate member Prof. Dr. Mohammad Abu Yusuf, and Prof. Dr. ABM Shahidul Islam of the Marketing Department. Registrar Munshi Shams Uddin Ahmed has been appointed as the member secretary.

Until the final investigation report is submitted — due within 30 working days — Benazir Ahmed’s doctorate degree will remain suspended.

Benazir received the DBA degree in 2019 and has since used the “Dr.” title. However, it has now been revealed that his basic academic qualifications did not meet the minimum threshold for admission, and the rules were allegedly bent in his favor.

At the time of his admission, the then-Dean of the Business Faculty, Prof. Shibli Rubaiyat-Ul-Islam, played a key role in approving the application and also served as Benazir’s research supervisor. His involvement is likely to come under scrutiny during the ongoing investigation.