SUKKUR: The SIBA Testing Services Secretary, Sacha Nand Solanki, tendered his resignation after the company’s CEO allegedly went berserk during the Nov 13 meeting held in the Sukkur IBA to review arrangements for the next MDCAT test.

In his resignation letter, Mr Solanki said he was formally tendering his resignation from the additional charge of the company secretary with immediate effect due to the “considerable mental stress and pressure associated with the role”.

Narrating the incident that led to his decision to quit immediately, the company secretary wrote in his report that the meeting was held at 3:30pm in the vice chancellor’s office to discuss important matters related to the MDCAT. The meeting addressed key issues and developments concerning the examination process, involving relevant stakeholders from the university and medical education authorities.

Besides him and the CEO, the meeting was attended by Hira Batool Pathan, Manager of Operations & Procurement, and Salman Hyder Memon, Deputy Manager of ICT.

The meeting was briefed on the SECP registration process and the pending issues related to SECP matters were outlined. The discussion focused on ensuring compliance and addressing outstanding requirements to move forward with the registration.

“The meeting took a dark turn when the CEO lost control during discussions. His anger escalated into abusive language, including offensive remarks …”

“The situation spiraled as he threw glasses, teacups, and files, creating chaos. One glass shattered against his own hand, causing a bleeding wound, though he seemed unfazed. The room fell silent, the tension thick as participants exchanged uneasy glances,” Mr Solanki wrote.

He narrated that without addressing the mess or his injury, the CEO stormed out, leaving behind a shattered environment -- both physically and emotionally.

He stated that the other meeting participants felt traumatised and emotionally assaulted.

The CEO’s personal secretary, deputy registrar (transport), additional registrar (meeting and coordination), director ICT and peons rushed in and tried to help bandage his bleeding hand, Mr Solanki stated, adding that despite their efforts, his [the CEO’s] angry outbursts continued.

The company secretary wrote that the matter needed immediate attention of the authorities concerned, and called for an inquiry into the whole episode.

Later, IBA Vice Chancellor Dr Asif Ahmed Shaikh directed Mr Solanki to continue with his assignment till the appointment of a new secretary. He also directed him to complete the task already assigned to him.

Published in Dawn, November 17th, 2024