The Academic Staff Association (ASA) of Punjab University has condemned the suspension of two senior faculty members and the locking of their offices, raising concerns about the university administration’s handling of the matter. The association expressed solidarity with Professor Dr Kamran Abid and Professor Dr Muhammad Azhar Naeem during a general body meeting in Lahore.
Participants voiced reservations about decisions taken by the Vice Chancellor and called for immediate measures to address tensions between teachers and the university administration. They stressed that faculty members should be able to perform their professional duties in an environment that protects their dignity, rights and academic freedom.
The association also demanded a comprehensive forensic audit of Punjab University’s administrative and financial affairs. It called for an impartial investigation into allegations of financial irregularities and administrative mismanagement involving the Vice Chancellor. The teachers emphasised that these allegations should be examined through a transparent and credible process.
During the meeting, participants maintained that administrative powers should not be used to silence faculty members who raise concerns about university affairs. They said disagreements within academic institutions should be addressed through dialogue and established procedures rather than disciplinary measures.
The general body adopted a resolution urging the university administration to consider the teachers’ demands and take practical steps to resolve the dispute. The resolution reaffirmed the association’s commitment to protecting faculty rights, professional dignity and institutional autonomy.
The teachers also called for meaningful negotiations between faculty representatives and the administration to ease tensions and prevent disruption to academic and research activities. They stressed that constructive engagement was necessary to restore a peaceful working environment at the university.
The Academic Staff Association further urged the Punjab government to take notice of the concerns raised by university teachers and help address the situation. Participants said transparent management and the protection of faculty rights should remain important priorities for public-sector educational institutions.
The association reiterated its support for the two suspended professors and said it would continue pursuing its demands through constitutional and democratic means. The teachers maintained that transparent accountability, institutional responsibility and meaningful dialogue were necessary to resolve the dispute and safeguard Punjab University’s academic environment and reputation.
