PIA's deputy station manager Javed Iqbal Bajwa resigns over fake degree scandal

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) Deputy Station Manager Javed Iqbal Bajwa, stationed in Birmingham, resigned from his position after an inquiry revealed that his educational credentials were fake, according to sources.

PIA initiated an investigation into Bajwa’s intermediate certificate, which had been submitted as part of his employment records.

Upon verification from the Lahore Board, the certificate was found to be fraudulent, leading to the airline’s request for his resignation.

The 73-year-old initially resisted stepping down from his position, despite the revelation.

However, under pressure from his family, Bajwa submitted his resignation in early August.

Bajwa, who joined PIA in 1977, changed his employment status to British citizenship in the late 1980s. 

Despite his fake degree, he received favourable treatment from the airline, including financial benefits upon his resignation, sources revealed.

This stands in contrast to other PIA employees with fake credentials, who were terminated without any compensation or benefits.

The scandal has raised questions over the standards of PIA's employment practices, particularly in comparison to others who were dismissed under similar circumstances.

A spokesperson for PIA confirmed the findings and said that the airline had issued a show-cause notice to Bajwa, giving him seven days to prove the authenticity of his educational documents.

However, after failing to provide any legitimate evidence, Bajwa resigned.

In the past, PIA has been strict in its actions against employees with fake degrees, typically leading to termination and legal action.

Bajwa’s case has prompted criticism due to the leniency extended to him in the form of financial benefits.