Gazipur Girls Child Development Center Superintendent Cleared of Sexual Harassment Charges Amid Official Controversy

GAZIPUR — The Department of Social Services is launching a fresh investigation into allegations of systemic sexual harassment and misconduct against Setaruzzaman, the former supervisor of the Government Child Development Center (Girls) in Konabari, Gazipur. The move follows widespread internal and external criticism over the official’s recent reinstatement despite grave allegations of abuse against vulnerable minors.

Setaruzzaman had been suspended following an extensive inquiry by Ayesha Akter, director of the Divisional Social Services Office in Dhaka. Her December 8 report detailed harrowing accounts from six residents who alleged that the supervisor engaged in inappropriate physical contact, coerced them into watching pornography, and made sexually suggestive remarks. According to the report, Setaruzzaman allegedly pressured married residents regarding their intimate lives, solicited bribes for unauthorized visitation rights, and attempted to facilitate the forced abortion of a pregnant teenager by tampering with her food.

Despite these findings, a departmental hearing later cleared Setaruzzaman, citing a lack of “indisputable proof” after one of the complainants partially recanted her testimony regarding the abortion attempt during the formal proceeding. Consequently, the Ministry of Social Welfare revoked his suspension, cleared him of all charges, and granted him back pay. He was briefly slated to return to his post at the Konabari facility in late July, a decision that triggered immediate outcry among staff and children.

Mohammad Kamruzzaman, the newly appointed Director (Institutions) of the Department of Social Services, confirmed that the official is currently serving as an Officer on Special Duty (OSD) at the headquarters while a more rigorous investigation is conducted. “We are looking into the allegations with further scrutiny,” he stated.

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The government center, established in 2003, houses 117 girls between the ages of 10 and 18, many of whom are placed there by court orders for protection. Ayesha Akter, whose initial investigation recommended Setaruzzaman’s immediate removal and replacement with a female official, has publicly questioned the decision to exonerate him, maintaining that the findings of her report were grounded in the testimony of multiple residents.

Throughout the investigation, Setaruzzaman has maintained his innocence, claiming he is the victim of a conspiracy orchestrated by disgruntled employees and residents. When contacted for comment, he declined to discuss the allegations, citing personal family matters.

The incident has cast a spotlight on the oversight mechanisms within the Department of Social Services. Beyond the accusations against the supervisor, the inspection report identified long-standing vacancies in critical roles, such as house parents, and noted that even employees previously accused of misconduct have been reinstated via court orders. Advocacy groups and internal observers have raised alarms, questioning whether the facility—intended to be a sanctuary for children in conflict with the law—can ensure the safety and security of the residents it is mandated to protect.