Karachi: A third year medical student of Muhammad Medical College, now operating as Ibne Sina University in Mirpurkhas, allegedly took her own life by shooting herself with her father’s handgun, prompting the Sindh government to order a high level inquiry into claims of harassment by a college professor.
Family members said Fahmeeda Laghari, a third year student, died on Wednesday at her residence. Her maternal uncle, Waseem Laghari, told vitalsnews.com that the student had been under severe distress due to alleged harassment by a faculty member, which they believe led to the tragic incident.
The case has triggered a strong response from the Sindh government, with Interior Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar directing immediate action. Following his instructions, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Mirpurkhas has constituted a high level inquiry committee to investigate all aspects of the case.
Officials said the committee has been tasked with submitting its report within 10 days. It comprises SSP Mirpurkhas Syed Fida Hussain Shah, SP Headquarters Aftab Hussain Talpur and SP City Qurratulain.
According to the official notification, the committee will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incident, examining all possible angles, including allegations of harassment, institutional responsibility and any potential criminal negligence.
Authorities said the inquiry body has been empowered to determine responsibility of any individual or institution found involved, and to assess whether there was any lapse or misconduct that contributed to the incident. The committee will also carry out a detailed forensic and analytical review of any audio or written message left behind by the deceased, if available.
Officials added that the investigation would not be limited to individual accountability but would also examine administrative and systemic failures, if any, within the institution. The committee has been directed to identify gaps in oversight, student protection mechanisms and grievance redressal systems.
The notification further states that the inquiry team will recommend legal as well as departmental action against those found responsible, and ensure that the investigation is conducted in a transparent, thorough and unbiased manner.
Meanwhile, a statement attributed to the owner of the medical college circulating on social media has rejected the harassment allegations and termed the incident a personal tragedy, claiming that no formal complaint had been filed by the student during her lifetime. The statement also maintained that the institution maintains a safe academic environment.
However, family members have contested this position, insisting that the student had been under mental pressure due to alleged conduct of a faculty member, and have demanded a fair and impartial investigation.
The incident has raised serious concerns about student safety, mental health support and accountability mechanisms in medical institutions, with calls for strict action if allegations of harassment are proven.
Police said further action would be taken in light of findings of the inquiry committee.
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