Dr. Hafiz Ishaq, Head of the IT Department at the Federal Urdu University of Science and Technology (FUUAST), has been dismissed from his position and fined one million rupees by the Federal Ombudsperson for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH). The verdict was delivered in a workplace harassment case filed by FUUAST lecturer Ms. Arooj Malik.
Details of the Verdict
FOSPAH, under the leadership of Ombudsperson Fauzia Waqar, issued the judgment on Monday, marking a significant decision in the fight against workplace harassment. According to the ruling:
- Rs800,000 must be paid to the complainant, Ms. Arooj Malik, as compensation.
- Rs200,000 is to be deposited into the national treasury.
- The university has been directed to enforce these penalties and submit a compliance report to FOSPAH by December 5, 2024.
Background of the Case
Ms. Arooj Malik, a lecturer in the Business Administration Department at FUUAST, filed a formal harassment complaint against Dr. Ishaq, citing repeated harassment over several years. Attempts to resolve the issue informally were unsuccessful, leading Ms. Malik to pursue legal action.
Initially, FUUAST’s institutional inquiry committee failed to address the complaint adequately, prompting the complainant to escalate the matter to FOSPAH.
Investigation Findings
During the investigation, Ms. Malik presented unchallenged testimony and evidence, leading FOSPAH to conclude that Dr. Ishaq had violated the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, of 2010.
Admission of Guilt
A pivotal moment in the case came when Dr. Ishaq admitted to physical harassment during the investigation and apologized to Ms. Malik. This admission further solidified the findings against him.
Significance of the Verdict
This landmark judgment underscores the commitment of FOSPAH to uphold workplace safety and protect victims of harassment. It also serves as a reminder to institutions of their responsibility to address harassment complaints seriously and act against violators.
The case highlights the importance of creating a harassment-free work environment and ensuring accountability for those who abuse their positions of authority.
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