Dr. M. Mohsin Butt, a senior professor at the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) in Karachi, has been dismissed from his position due to allegations of harassment. These allegations include using offensive, threatening, and abusive language towards his colleagues and the IBA management, which is believed to have harmed the reputation of his fellow faculty members.
Dr. Butt’s dismissal comes after he had reportedly been cautioned in the past about following the IBA’s Code of Conduct. Irfan Qamar, the Director of Human Resources (HR) at the institution, emphasized that taking strong action against a senior faculty member is seen as a way to uphold the university’s values and policies.
Dr. Butt, who held the position of a professor of Marketing at the School of Business Studies, vehemently denies the accusations made against him. He asserts that he was terminated without being given a chance to present his side of the story to the inquiry committee.
The professor was handed his termination letter by security officials at the university’s gate. He revealed that an old case and a show-cause notice had been issued to him by the university’s administration. Dr. Butt also mentioned that he had sought support from the chief minister but was not heard, despite his efforts to raise awareness about harassment, abuse, and injustices within the university.
This incident has raised concerns and sparked discussions among students, faculty, and the general public. Many are divided on whether the university’s decision was fair and just or if Dr. Butt’s allegations of a lack of due process hold weight.
It is crucial to understand that when allegations of harassment are made, it is essential to have a fair and transparent investigation to determine the truth. Allegations of this nature can have severe consequences for both the accuser and the accused. It is equally important to maintain the principles of fairness and justice during such investigations.
At this point, the situation remains contentious, and there are various perspectives on the matter. Some argue that the university’s actions reflect a commitment to upholding its values and policies, while others emphasize the need for a thorough and unbiased inquiry that considers all parties involved.
As the case unfolds, it will be necessary for the university to handle it with care, ensuring that all sides have the opportunity to present their accounts and that due process is followed. This will be a test of the institution’s commitment to its values and the principles of fairness and justice in addressing such sensitive matters.
