HYDERABAD: The inquiry committee constituted by the Sindh inspector general of police (IGP) to investigate the case of Fahmida Laghari, a student who allegedly died by suicide following harassment, has submitted its preliminary report.
According to the report, allegations of harassment, blackmail, intimidation and professional misconduct against university lecturer Abid Laghari were found to be substantiated during the inquiry.
The report states that the lecturer’s conduct, including alleged misrepresentation, harassment, intimidation, demands for financial benefits and other inappropriate actions, contributed significantly to the deterioration of Fahmida Laghari’s mental condition.
Based on its findings, the inquiry committee recommended legal proceedings against Abid Laghari under Sections 418, 384, 201, 509, 420 and 316 of the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC). The report also named the current vice chancellor of the private university and principal of Muhammad Medical College, Prof Dr Zafar Tanveer, among those held responsible for circumstances surrounding the case.
However, the inquiry cleared Prof Farzana, wife of Dr Zafar Tanveer, as well as students Abdullah and Abdul Rehman, of all allegations due to a lack of evidence. The case relates to the death of Fahmida Laghari, whose alleged suicide after reportedly facing harassment at a private university and its affiliated Muhammad Medical College sparked widespread public concern and calls for a transparent and impartial investigation.
Authorities are expected to review the inquiry findings before deciding on further legal and administrative action. In April, the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council had sought a detailed report from Muhammad Medical College in Mirpurkhas regarding the death of Fahmida Laghari.
In a letter to the college principal, the council had expressed deep condolences over the student’s death and described the incident as having a “profound and far-reaching impact” on the student community. The PMDC directed the administration to submit a factual, complete and comprehensive account of the incident within seven days.
