Gomal University Inquiry Ordered as KP Government Sends VC on Leave
The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has initiated a Gomal University Inquiry after placing Vice Chancellor Prof. Zafar Iqbal on 90-day forced leave. The decision aims to facilitate a fresh investigation into the university’s administrative affairs and several allegations that have surfaced in recent months. Officials say the move will help ensure transparency and accountability while the inquiry proceeds.
According to an official notification, the chief minister approved the decision in his role as chancellor of Gomal University under Section 12(8) of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Universities Act, 2012. During the vice chancellor’s leave, authorities have assigned an additional charge as acting registrar to Imranullah Khan, the university’s senior-most administrative officer. As a result, the institution’s routine operations will continue without disruption.
Committee to Investigate Key Allegations
The provincial government has also formed a three-member committee to conduct the Gomal University Inquiry. The commissioner of Dera Ismail Khan will head the panel. Meanwhile, the vice chancellor of the University of Peshawar and the registrar of the University of Science and Technology Bannu will serve as members.
The committee will investigate several serious allegations. These include a reported firing incident involving a university security officer and a student at the Law College. In addition, the panel will examine reports of drug abuse in a university hostel and complaints regarding appointments allegedly made in violation of merit.
Authorities have directed the committee to record statements from all relevant stakeholders. Therefore, the investigation will gather evidence from multiple sources before reaching conclusions.
Probe to Review Governance and Administration
The committee will also review the university’s administrative structure, financial management, security arrangements, hostel administration, student discipline, and recruitment procedures. Furthermore, it will identify any negligence, misuse of authority, or violation of rules.
Officials have authorized the panel to recommend legal or departmental action against individuals found responsible for misconduct. Moreover, the committee can propose reforms to strengthen governance and improve institutional performance.
The government has instructed the panel to submit an evidence-based report within two weeks. While some faculty members and administrators fear the move may create uncertainty, others believe the inquiry could improve transparency and accountability. The provincial government maintains that the decision followed findings from an earlier investigation and says any future action will depend on the committee’s final report.
