Robi’s Former Acting HR Chief Files Case After Dismissal Over Misconduct Allegations

Former Acting Chief Human Resource Officer of Robi Axiata, Md. Maruful Alam Chowdhury, has filed a case challenging his dismissal from the telecommunications operator, several months after his employment was terminated following allegations of workplace misconduct.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the allegations against Md. Maruful Alam
Chowdhury included workplace harassment, discrimination, abuse of authority, and retaliatory actions toward employees. The complaints reportedly described a pattern of hostile and intimidating conduct, including prolonged verbal outbursts, public humiliation of staff, and coercive management practices.

Several allegations raised concerns about workplace harassment and employee welfare, with claims that employees—particularly women—were subjected to undue pressure to remain available beyond normal working expectations. The complaints also referenced alleged gender-insensitive behavior, interference with a women’s empowerment initiative, and retaliatory actions against an employee who had raised concerns with senior management.

A number of employees felt compelled to resign and leave the organisation due to fear, distress, and the hostile work environment created under his leadership. Subsequently, a number of ex-employees submitted complaints and written statements regarding Md. Maruful Alam
Chowdhury to Robi.

Following the complaints, the company initiated an internal process. Md. Maruful Alam
Chowdhury was suspended pending an investigation and was asked to provide a written response to the allegations. After reviewing the findings, Robi Axiata terminated his employment on August 28, 2025.

Md. Maruful Alam
Chowdhury told The New Nation that the complaint was not processed in accordance with company rules and that he was not given a fair opportunity to defend himself during the investigation. He also argued that the allegations did not warrant termination under the company’s consequence management framework.

Subsequently, on November 27, 2025, Maruf Alam filed a title suit before the Joint District Judge Court in Dhaka, challenging the dismissal. In the case filing, he reportedly sought approximately Tk 84.4 crore in damages in connection with the company’s decision.

The matter remains at a preliminary stage, and the lower court has not yet accepted the case for hearing.