SC issues guidelines to prevent harassment in educational institutions

Islamabad: The Supreme Court has issued a detailed verdict outlining measures to prevent harassment in educational institutions.

In its ruling, the Supreme Court observed that students should not be taught that power justifies corruption or that remaining silent in the face of wrongdoing is preferable to speaking the truth.

The court stated that sexual harassment of female teachers by male colleagues is an abuse and a violation of law, ethics, dignity, and personal security. Such actions not only damage an individual's dignity but also violate their right to a safe environment.

The verdict was issued by a bench comprising Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Musarrat Hilali in a harassment case.

The court directed that every institution must have a clear anti-harassment policy to ensure a healthy working environment. It also stressed the need for an effective reporting mechanism that allows complaints to reach senior authorities.

The Supreme Court set aside the tribunal's decision and restored the punishment of withholding five years of the accused employee’s service.

The court dismissed the accused’s appeal on the grounds that it was filed after the expiry of the limitation period.

The court ordered that copies of the judgment be sent to the Federal Minister for Education and the Chief Secretaries of all provinces.

The purpose of sharing the verdict is to ensure the elimination of sexual harassment in educational institutions.

The Supreme Court directed the Ministry of Education to display a code of conduct against harassment in all educational institutions and ensure the formation of internal inquiry committees.

The court stated that sexual harassment of female teachers is a criminal act, unlawful conduct, and against human dignity.

It added that sexually suggestive jokes, messages, inappropriate behavior, and demands for personal favors in exchange for employment benefits violate workplace dignity.

The verdict further stated that attempts at unauthorized physical contact and creating an unsafe environment are illegal acts that violate an individual's basic rights, dignity, and security.

According to the case details, harassment allegations were made against a Grade-17 officer at the Government Special Education Centre in Faisalabad.