The sexual harassment incident at the Islamia University Bahawalnagar campus last month highlights a disturbing trend affecting educational institutions in Pakistan. A female student from the Department of Education reported her lecturer, Nadeem Ahmad, for threatening to fail her unless she complied with his demands. The student initially approached the Anti-Harassment Committee (AHC), but according to the FIA, the administration attempted to suppress the matter rather than taking prompt action. The Vice-Chancellor has since suspended Nadeem and launched an investigation, revealing he may have been involved in other similar cases. This incident, alongside reports of drug dealing and harassment at the university, raises concerns over the deteriorating environment in Pakistan’s educational institutions.

Sexual harassment cannot continue to be a feature of life for women in Pakistan, especially within spaces that should prioritize safety and learning. A democratic government is bound to protect its people, and yet, with recurring instances of harassment and abuse, this responsibility seems lacking. Pakistan is grappling with issues that should have been resolved long ago. While other nations focus on advancing their economies, strengthening trade, and developing defense alliances, Pakistan is frequently mired in societal issues such as sexual harassment, which remains a major threat to women and, by extension, to the stability of the country. For a state claiming to be an Islamic Democratic Republic, ensuring the security and dignity of women should be fundamental. However, the government’s failure to safeguard its women weakens the country’s democratic legitimacy, posing a critical threat to........

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