K-P university backtracks after banning ‘coupling' of male, female students

Bacha Khan University VC says inquiry launched against official who issued contentious notification

PESHAWAR: The administration of Bacha Khan University's Charsadda Campus on Thursday backtracked on its contentious decision to ban "coupling" of men and women students.

Through a notification issued on September 23, the varsity's assistant chief proctor announced that "coupling of male and female students is not allowed" and warned of "strick [sic] disciplinary action" if the directives were not followed.

The notification alluded to a "surge" in "undue/un-Islamic/uncultural relationships" and warned that students found violating the order would be fined and their parents would be notified.

"Hence therefore to avoid any untoward situations, no male and female student's correspondence should occur," read the notification.

K-P schoolgirls ordered to cover-up  

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Assistant Chief Proctor Farmanullah defended the regressive decision and said it was taken following complaints by concerned parents.

"It [the ban] is for the betterment of the students," he said.

However, the varsity's vice-chancellor, Professor Dr Saqlain Naqvi, told The Express Tribune that the notification had been withdrawn.

He said a departmental inquiry had been launched against the assistant chief proctor for issuing the circular without consulting senior administration officials.



This is the second such incident reported in Khyber Pakthunkhwa this month.

Last week, a district education officer in Peshawar issued a circular directing the heads of all government girls schools to ensure that women students wear a gown, chador or a veil to protect themselves against harassment.

The circular was withdrawn by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Mahmood Khan following widespread criticism.