Former Acting Chief Human Resource Officer of Robi Axiata, Md. Maruful Alam Chowdhury, has filed a lawsuit challenging his dismissal from the telecom operator, months after he was terminated following a series of misconduct allegations raised by employees.

According to sources familiar with the matter, multiple complaints accused Chowdhury of workplace harassment, discrimination, abuse of authority and retaliatory conduct against staff members. 

The allegations described a pattern of hostile behavior, including prolonged verbal outbursts, public humiliation of employees and coercive management practices that allegedly created a culture of fear within the organisation.

Several complaints also raised concerns about employee welfare, alleging that staff—particularly female employees—faced pressure to remain available beyond normal working hours. 

Allegations further included gender-insensitive conduct, interference in a women’s empowerment initiative and retaliatory actions against an employee who reportedly escalated concerns to senior management.

Sources said the work environment under his leadership prompted several employees to resign, while a number of former staff members later submitted written complaints and statements detailing their experiences.

Following the complaints, Robi initiated an internal investigation and suspended Chowdhury pending the inquiry.

He was asked to submit a written explanation before the company reviewed the findings. Based on the investigation outcome, Robi terminated his employment on August 28, 2025.

Chowdhury has denied wrongdoing, claiming the investigation process was not conducted in accordance with company policies and that he was not given a fair opportunity to defend himself. 

He also argued that the allegations did not justify termination under the company’s disciplinary framework.

On November 27, 2025, he filed a title suit in a Dhaka court seeking approximately 84.4 crore taka in damages. The court has yet to admit the case for hearing, and the matter remains at a preliminary stage.

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