Benazir Bhutto University VC Forced to Resign

Benazir Bhutto Shaheed University's Vice Chancellor, Professor Dr. Hussain Mehdi, has resigned due to ongoing political pressure and interference in his administrative duties, especially regarding the reinstatement of employees dismissed for alleged corruption. Dr. Mehdi has submitted his resignation to the Sindh Chief Minister and will continue his work until it is formally accepted.

The conflict intensified during a Syndicate meeting where MPA and PPP leader Yousuf Baloch argued with Associate Professor Dr. Ibrahim Noorani over the dismissal of Tanveer Soomro. Dr. Noorani claimed in a video statement that Baloch brought Soomro to the meeting to seek the reinstatement of employees removed for corruption. The university's employees have been protesting against the registrar for three days, with some alleging the registrar has political affiliations.

Dr. Mehdi highlighted that more than 15 employees faced disciplinary action for various reasons, including drug use and absenteeism. He noted that the university had made strides in financial management, faculty enhancement, academic pursuits, infrastructure, and institutional development over the past 18 months. However, he expressed concern that continuous protests and pressure hindered his ability to effectively perform his duties.

Dr. Mehdi warned that yielding to employee pressure in administrative decisions would compromise the university's legally empowered bodies' authority, setting a detrimental precedent.