Government College University (GCU) Lahore has formed an inquiry committee to investigate harassment and blackmail allegations against an assistant professor of English following a confrontation at the Thaap Conference on November 7.
The university said the committee, which includes external members, would examine the allegations and circumstances surrounding the incident. It has been directed to submit its findings within seven days.
The development came after a video showing two women confronting and allegedly assaulting the faculty member during a tea break at the conference circulated widely on social media.
What Happened at the Thaap Conference?
According to witnesses, two women punched the assistant professor during the confrontation, while a third woman recorded the incident on her mobile phone.
People attending the conference reportedly tried to intervene but were unable to stop the women. Witnesses said the confrontation involved references to previous allegations against the teacher.
The women also demanded the return of Rs. 3.5 million, claiming the amount had been received from a female student. However, the university administration said the allegations and financial claims had not been independently established.
Witnesses also disputed claims circulating online that one of the women was the student’s mother. They further said the women referred to an earlier harassment inquiry in which the teacher had reportedly been cleared.
The circumstances of the earlier inquiry and the claims made during the confrontation remain subject to verification.
Old Ravians Raise Questions Over Earlier Inquiry
The Old Ravians, an association of former students, expressed concern over what it described as repeated allegations of harassment, bullying, blackmail and extortion involving the faculty member.
In a statement, the group said allegations had first emerged in 2024 and had prompted concern among students. It questioned whether the matter had been investigated transparently and whether the complainant had faced pressure.
The association also called for scrutiny of the earlier inquiry, raising questions about how the complaint had been handled and whether the process had adequately protected the person who reported the alleged misconduct.
It demanded justice for the alleged victim and urged educational institutions to ensure safe environments for students and teachers, including at events held outside university campuses.
The group’s claims have not been independently established and should be considered allegations pending further examination.
GCU Orders Seven-Day Investigation
The GCU administration said the vice chancellor had taken notice of the video showing the off-campus incident and the allegations against the faculty member.
It confirmed that an inquiry committee with external representation had been constituted to establish the facts. The committee is expected to review the available information and submit its report within seven days.
The university reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on harassment, stating that anyone found responsible for misconduct would face action under applicable laws and institutional regulations.
It also said the investigation would follow due process and that any further action would be based on the committee’s findings.
HEC Policy Sets Framework for Harassment Complaints
The Higher Education Commission has a revised policy on protection against harassment in higher education institutions. The framework is intended to help universities provide safe and respectful academic and working environments.
GCU also outlines its anti-harassment arrangements on its official website, stating that its committee handles complaints while maintaining confidentiality and ensuring that cases are addressed without discrimination.
The outcome of the university’s inquiry is expected to clarify the allegations surrounding the November 7 incident and address questions raised about the earlier complaint.
Until the committee completes its work, the claims against the faculty member, the financial allegations and questions about the previous inquiry remain unproven.
