ISLAMABAD: While the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has claimed it is actively pursuing inquiries into recent student suicide cases, the family of Ms Fahmeeda Laghari, a third-year medical student at Muhammad Medical College, Mirpurkhas, has stated that she was experiencing significant stress in the days preceding the incident, allegedly due to continuous harassment by certain individuals, including fellow students.

The council deputed a senior female officer to visit the bereaved family, who collected firsthand information regarding the events leading up to the incident.

According to the family, the deceased had been under considerable stress in the days prior to her death, allegedly due to ongoing harassment. They further stated that complaints had been brought to the attention of the college administration; however, they believe no effective action was taken.

Relevant material and preliminary evidence have been shared, while further clarity is awaited through forensic examination of mobile data.

In continuation of the proceedings, PMDC President Prof Dr Rizwan Taj constituted a fact-finding committee to conduct a parallel inquiry in order to expedite the process, ensure an independent assessment, and gather detailed information in the Fahmeeda Laghari case.

As part of this effort, a senior female officer from the PMDC visited the student’s home and met family members to gain a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding the incident. Her report has been formally submitted and is currently under review as part of the ongoing proceedings.

Preliminary hearing

Earlier, the PMDC president conducted a preliminary hearing on April 21, during which the college administration was summoned to present its position along with complete institutional records. Subsequently, three cases were referred to the Disciplinary Committee for further proceedings.

According to a statement, Prof Taj took immediate and sustained cognisance of the Fahmeeda Laghari case upon its reporting. He condemned the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly the serious allegations of harassment, and described the loss of a young medical student under such conditions as deeply alarming.

“PMDC emphasises that these statements represent the family’s perspective and are subject to verification through due process. Under the direct supervision of the president, the council has formally requisitioned complete records from the institution and relevant authorities, including details of the incident, outcomes of internal and governmental inquiries, and measures taken by the college administration.

The council continues to closely monitor compliance, and the case remains under active review,” the statement said.

Prof Taj reiterated that any failure by an institution to provide a safe academic environment or to implement mandatory anti-harassment mechanisms constitutes a serious violation of PMDC regulations and will result in strict disciplinary action.

Reaffirming the council’s proactive stance, all medical and dental institutions across the country have been directed to ensure that anti-harassment committees are not only established but are fully functional, responsive, and accessible to students for timely redressal of complaints.

Students have also been advised that, in cases where institutional mechanisms fail, they may directly approach the PMDC Harassment Committee.

Published in Dawn, April 28th, 2026