he had been stalking and harassing her for months
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has taken action against a lecturer at the University of Malakand following harassment allegations involving female students.
The case, which sparked outrage on social media, led to the formation of an inquiry committee to investigate the matter thoroughly.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur instructed the committee to submit a detailed report.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi urged authorities, including police and university officials, to ensure a fair and transparent probe.
The two-member inquiry committee comprises Additional Secretary Administration Asif Rahim and AIG Establishment Sonia Shamroz.
They have been tasked with collecting relevant evidence, recording statements, and submitting a report within 15 days.
If the allegations are proven, the committee has been directed to recommend legal proceedings against the accused.
On February 16, 2025, police arrested the suspect, Professor Abdul Haseeb, and seized his mobile phone.
It reportedly contained numerous objectionable videos of female students.
The lecturer has been suspended from his position at the university.
A female student from the university’s Urdu department accused Haseeb of harassment and intimidation.
She claimed Haseeb had been stalking and harassing her for months, despite her repeated complaints to the university administration.
The FIR, filed on February 4, invoked multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC).
This includes the charges of assault, kidnapping for forced marriage, criminal intimidation, and house trespass with intent to cause harm.
The complainant stated that on the day of the incident, the lecturer forcibly entered her home.
He grabbed her hand and tried to drag her away in front of her family.
When confronted, Haseeb threatened her with severe consequences if she refused to marry him.
Following the FIR, the university’s Anti-Harassment Committee held a meeting where the victim was heard in person.
The committee will submit its report with recommendations to the university syndicate for further action.
The university administration reaffirmed its zero-tolerance policy toward harassment, emphasising its commitment to a safe and just educational environment.
Meanwhile, the KP government has formed an independent committee to oversee the investigation.
The committee members will visit the university, gather statements from all involved parties, and consult relevant departments if needed.
The Deputy Commissioner and District Police Officer of Lower Dir will provide logistical support.
The incident, which quickly gained traction online, prompted widespread public and political reaction.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi condemned the act, stating that harassment in educational institutions is unacceptable and must be addressed with strict measures.
He emphasised that such incidents hinder women’s progress in education and society, adding that KP’s cultural values do not tolerate such behaviour.
He further criticised the provincial government for failing to maintain oversight of university affairs beyond recruitment.
Authorities have assured that the inquiry will be conducted transparently and that the case will be pursued to its conclusion.
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