KARACHI, Nov 29: A protest was held at the Sindh Medical College on Thursday against the delay by the government in the passing of the bill on the Sindh Jinnah Medical University (SJMU).

Students and college employees participating in the protest demanded enactment of the bill without further delay. Later, they blocked a road for some time.

Explaining reasons behind the frustrations of the students and employees, vice chancellor of the university Dr Tariq Rafi said that the delay in the bill enactment meant that exams might not be held on time while the staff would not get promoted.

“I have tried to pacify them. But, there are serious concerns. Earlier, the Dow University of Health Sciences took SMC exams, but now the exams will be held under the newly set up Sindh Jinnah Medical University in January,” he said, adding that the university bill presented in the assembly awaited approval.

“The SJMU ordinance has lapsed three months ago so it is important that the bill is passed so that all administrative works can be carried out smoothly. The assembly session to be held tomorrow has been postponed and now it will be held on Dec 6,” he added.

The university ordinance which lapsed on Aug 30 affiliates these health facilities with the newly set up academic institution, the SJMU.

The devolution of these federal health facilities has been challenged and the case is pending in court which has issued a stay order.