A recent scandal at Islamia University, Bahawalpur, has exposed serious misconduct. A visiting lecturer faced arrest for sexually harassing female students under the pretence of academic help. The Islamia University, Bahawalpur, scandal came to light through an investigative sting.
Ahmed Mahmood, a lecturer from the Software Engineering Department, allegedly failed female students intentionally. He then reached out to these students, offering to pass them after re-evaluating their papers, but only if they agreed to engage in inappropriate relations. Male students were reportedly asked for bribes in exchange for extra marks, while female students faced coercion into sexual acts.
ARY News’ program Sar-e-Aam ran a secret operation to catch him. During the sting, Mahmood called a female student to meet his demands. He tried to lure her with shopping trips or a laptop. He also attempted to touch her inappropriately several times. The student stalled him by asking for tea. As he left, the Sar-e-Aam team confronted him. He tried to flee but failed.
Initially, Mahmood denied all allegations. However, video evidence changed his stance, leading him to confess. The team subsequently handed him over to the police, and authorities registered a case at the Baghdad-ul-Jadeed Police Station. He now faces charges of attempted sexual harassment and bribery.
The university took swift action by banning Mahmood from campus. The Anti-Harassment Committee initiated an inquiry. The Vice Chancellor expressed deep concern, emphasising a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and a strong commitment to student safety. Officials encouraged other students to come forward with any information. The investigation is ongoing.
