Islamabad:The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), as the national regulatory authority for medical and dental education, has expressed concern over the death of a third-year medical student, Fahmeeda Laghari, of Muhammad Medical College, Mirpur Khas.
In an official statement, President PMDC Prof. Dr. Rizwan Taj expressed that PMDC strongly condemned the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly the serious allegations of harassment terming the loss of a young medical student under such distressing circumstances as deeply alarming.
He welcomed the inquiry initiated by the government of Sindh and stressed that the investigation must thoroughly examine and details be provided to the PMDC for further action. Keeping an intolerable attitude on harassment, PMDC already had strictly directed all the medical and dental colleges to constitute anti-harassment committees ensuring timely redressal of such complaints and safeguarding mental well-being of medical/dental fraternity.
The PMDC also time to time advised students that if their concerns are not addressed at the institutional level, they may directly lodge complaints with the PMDC Harassment Committee for appropriate action.
He stressed that any failure to implement these directives or to provide a safe academic environment would constitute a violation of PMDC regulations and policies. He added that constitution of harassment committees in medical dental institutions is not a formality but a critical safeguard for students. Any negligence in this regard will invite strict regulatory action.
He stated that the PMDC has prompted complete record / information in the matter including circumstances of the event, detailed findings of the inquiry committee constituted by the institution and government and remedial measures undertaken by the institution.
Upon receipt of which, the matter will be referred to PMDC disciplinary committee for appropriate action against responsible persons. The PMDC extends its condolences to the family of the deceased and calls upon medical institutions across the country to strictly adhere to ethical standards and regulatory directives issued by the PMDC to prevent such incidents in future.
He emphasized that all medical and dental institutions are obligated to provide a safe, respectful, and supportive academic environment for students. Any form of harassment, intimidation, or misconduct is a clear violation of ethical standards and regulatory requirements. He emphasised that safety, dignity, and mental well-being of students remain our top priority. No compromise will be tolerated in this regard.
