CM KP Orders Anti-Harassment Panels in Universities

In a firm step toward fostering a safe and inclusive learning environment for female students, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has directed the immediate enforcement of anti-harassment laws in all public sector universities across the province.

The Chief Minister’s Secretariat has formally communicated the directive to the Higher Education Department. The letter notes that although legal frameworks, policies, and guidelines exist to prevent harassment in educational institutions and workplaces, their implementation has been lacking in certain universities. This shortfall has reportedly led to recent incidents of alleged harassment, which have gained media attention.

Expressing serious concern over these reports, the Chief Minister described them as grave violations of both legal mandates and moral standards. He reaffirmed the provincial government’s zero-tolerance policy against all forms of harassment, especially in educational settings.

The Higher Education Department has been instructed to ensure the robust implementation of all necessary measures to prevent harassment in universities under its control. The directive also emphasizes the importance of raising awareness among female students and staff about existing protections under anti-harassment laws.

Universities have been ordered to establish harassment inquiry committees following legal requirements, ensuring the inclusion of at least one female member. Designated focal persons must be appointed, and their contact information must be made publicly available on university websites.

In addition, institutions are required to put in place effective systems for reporting and addressing harassment complaints, strictly following the protocols and guidelines set by the Higher Education Department.

All universities have been given a 10-day deadline to implement these directives and submit compliance reports. Any failure to meet the deadline will result in legal action against the responsible officials.