The Senate Committee on Rules of Procedure and Privileges has ordered a detailed investigation into a dispute involving the Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design (PIFD) after Senator Bushra Anjum Butt raised concerns about the treatment of teachers called for questioning. The committee decided to summon 13 individuals who made allegations against the senator and hear their accounts before reaching a decision.
The dispute centres on allegations that the university’s vice chancellor failed to follow directions issued by the Senate Standing Committee on Federal Education and Professional Training. During the meeting, the committee chairman sought an update on an inquiry assigned to Saleh Farooqi and requested the inquiry report so the matter could proceed on the basis of its findings.
Senator Bushra Anjum Butt said she had acted as a facilitator in her role as chairperson of the Senate education committee and had forwarded complaints received to the relevant authorities. She questioned the fairness of the inquiry and called for an impartial investigation based on evidence. The committee chairman asked her to present any supporting material relating to the allegations.
Senator Saadia Abbasi told the committee that the inquiry committee’s decision was expected the following day. Following discussion, members approved the formation of a subcommittee to examine the dispute in detail and summon all 13 individuals to present their positions. Senator Palwasha Muhammad Zai Khan was appointed convener, while Senators Dost Ali Jaisar and Jan Muhammad were named as members.
The committee also expressed displeasure over the absence of the federal education minister and education secretary. The chairman said they should have informed the committee in writing if they were unable to attend. He also noted that members of the university’s Senate had previously been invited to a meeting through Zoom but had not joined. The committee directed that show-cause notices be issued to the absent university Senate members.
In a separate matter, the committee considered a privilege motion moved by Senator Palwasha Muhammad Zai Khan against Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan over alleged unparliamentary conduct and remarks during a standing committee discussion. The chairman said a letter seeking the minister’s response had already been sent, but no reply had been received. The committee directed that another letter be issued and deferred the matter until a response is received.
