By Abdul Rahim Khan Ghouri
A serious harassment case at Sindh Madressatul Islam University (SMIU) has sparked alarm within the academic community due to prolonged delays in justice, despite clear findings by multiple inquiry committees.
The case involves a female professor from the Department of Environmental Science who filed a complaint against Assistant Professor Abdul Majeed Pirzada several months ago. The university’s Vice Chancellor formed at least two investigative committees, both of which confirmed the harassment allegations and recommended significant disciplinary action.
However, the university administration has yet to take any formal steps. In a recent letter to the Vice Chancellor, the professor expressed frustration over repeated summons to recount her experience and alleged political pressure aimed at suppressing the matter.
She appealed to Sindh Governor Kamran Tessori, Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, and Education Minister to intervene and take strict notice, warning that continued inaction could encourage similar incidents across academic institutions.
A show-cause notice made public confirms that Professor Pirzada was found guilty and penalties were recommended. Yet, no action has been enforced.
The case has sparked wider debate on the effectiveness of grievance mechanisms in universities, particularly for female staff. The professor emphasized that harassment incidents persist due to such delays and lack of accountability, pledging to continue her fight for justice and protection of others.
The academic community and rights activists now call on Sindh’s higher authorities to ensure swift and decisive action.
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