Gomal University expels students over attack, harassment of female student

Disruptive incidents prompt administration to take strict action, ensuring safe and respectful learning environment

The administration of Gomal University has expelled several students following a series of recent disruptive incidents that threatened the campus’s academic and administrative environment.

According to an official handout, incidents included an attack on the university registrar’s office on October 13, where students along with outsiders engaged in physical assault and abusive behaviour; harassment of a tribal female student in the Department of Sports on October 16; attempted forced entry into the Vice Chancellor’s office on October 17; and deliberately showing disrespect during the national anthem at a welcome party in the AQ Khan Auditorium on October 27.

Reports also surfaced of anti-Pakistan slogans being raised during a cricket match between Pakistan and India on September 14 in the same auditorium.

A fact-finding committee was formed to investigate these reports and submit its findings to the university authorities. Based on the committee’s report, the disciplinary committee issued notices to the students involved, provided them opportunities to submit written responses, and appear in person in their defence on October 23 and November 7.

After reviewing their responses, the committee decided to cancel the enrollment of students involved and expelled them from the university. Their hostel rooms were vacated and locked. Expelled students include Aman Burki (Department of Zoology), Irfanullah and Nangyal Bhattni (MLT Department), Ehsan Mehsud (Economics), and Tariq Bhattni (Political Science). Additionally, former student Aamir Bhattni has been barred from entering the campus for five years.

These students are ineligible for admission to other educational institutions. The university emphasised that these measures reflect its zero-tolerance policy towards any actions undermining the learning environment.

University officials have also coordinated with district police and other authorities to maintain peace and order, receiving assurances of full cooperation. The administration stressed that no education-disrupting group will be allowed to compromise students’ academic time or the institution’s peaceful atmosphere.