Sexual harassment of women in workplaces and educational institutions is, unfortunately, quite common in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, but the recent scandal at Islamia University, Bahawalpur, is so appalling that it has shocked society.
ARY’s investigative show Sar-e-Aam revealed shocking misconduct on part of a university lecturer who blackmailed female students for academic benefits. The accused, Ahmed Mahmood, a lecturer in the Department of Software Engineering, was found to have indulged in academic blackmail, sexual coercion, and abuse of authority.
While conducting a sting operation, Mahmood was caught on tape deliberately failing female students and then meeting with them in private settings, promising to help them pass their exams if they provided him with sexual services. The operation also uncovered that his exploitation was not limited to female students; male students were also said to be bribed for better grades, which points to institutional corruption.
Footage recorded by undercover cameras revealed Mahmood trying to entice a female student with offers of presents, such as a laptop and a shopping excursion, while making constant unwelcome physical advances.
When challenged by reporters, the lecturer attempted to escape but was promptly arrested. He went on to own up to his misconduct. Local police have now arrested him and opened a formal inquiry into the matter.
