ISLAMABAD: Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Medical University (SZABMU) administration has formally approached the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca), against digital harassment of officials.

The Vice Chancellor (VC) Mosa Khan has submitted the application with the FIA director general.

According to details, an anonymous email containing objections regarding transfer postings within the institution was circulated to various key government functionaries. The email also questioned the Vice Chancellor’s administrative decisions.

In his application, VC Mosa Khan has expressed serious concerns over the act of defamation and claimed that it not only tarnished the institution’s reputation but also undermined the integrity of officials who were actively addressing irregularities within the university.

He emphasised that SZABMU, as a federal government medical institution, remained committed to merit, accountability, and service delivery in the fields of medical education and research across all provinces and regions.

He warned that such harassment would not be tolerated and called upon the FIA director general to ensure that legal action be taken under the Peca Act and that the perpetrators be apprehended.

“The Peca Act safeguards the digital rights of both citizens and government institutions. I reassure students and officials that the university will continue its efforts to maintain transparency and accountability,” Mosa Khan stated.

It is worth mentioning that the Peca Act is being criticised by the legal fraternity and other stakeholders. On Tuesday the Act was challenged by a citizen in the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

The petitioner Mohammad Qayum Khan cited concerns over its impact on freedom of speech and human rights and urged the apex court to strike down the act.

Published in Dawn, February 5th, 2025