In a landmark ruling, the Federal Ombudsman for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) has found Dr Zabta Khan Shinwari, Vice Chancellor of the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST), guilty of workplace harassment for making gender-stereotypical and demeaning remarks about women.
The case centered on Dr Shinwari’s statement that “when females reach the age of around 35 or above, they experience hormonal issues, and their mental condition becomes unstable, causing them to create problems for others.” Ombudsperson Fauzia Viqar denounced the remarks as “inherently sexist, derogatory, and demeaning,” adding that such comments promote gender bias and create a hostile work environment.
As punishment, FOSPAH has issued a formal censure against Dr Shinwari under the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act 2010. The university’s syndicate has been instructed to closely monitor his behavior and ensure no recurrence of similar incidents.
The ruling underscored that leaders in academic institutions bear an elevated duty to demonstrate gender sensitivity, as their actions and words set the tone for campus culture. It further stated that a lack of awareness about gender stereotypes cannot excuse discriminatory conduct, particularly from those in positions of authority.
Beyond individual accountability, FOSPAH directed FUUAST to implement systemic reforms, including the establishment of a standing inquiry committee, visible display of the workplace code of conduct across campuses, and regular gender-sensitivity workshops for both staff and students.
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The decision marks a significant step in reinforcing workplace equality and sends a strong message that sexist attitudes and remarks, especially from those in leadership roles, will face firm consequences under the law.