SC restores penalty for headmistress over harassment negligence, issues guidelines

Pakistan's Supreme Court has reinstated a significant penalty against a government school headmistress for gross negligence in failing to protect female teachers from sexual harassment. The court also issued comprehensive guidelines aimed at ensuring strict enforcement of anti-harassment mechanisms in all educational institutions across the country.

A two-judge bench, led by Justice Muha­mmad Ali Mazhar, authored a 12-page judgment that described sexual harassment in educational settings as a "grave transgression, illegal behaviour and a violation of law, ethics, workplace dignity and self-respect." The ruling detailed various forms of harassment, including unsolicited comments, catcalling, and pressure for favors, noting that such conduct creates an insecure environment and hampers teachers' ability to educate effectively.

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a grave transgression, illegal behaviour and a violation of law, ethics, workplace dignity and self-respect

The Supreme Court's decision overturned a previous order by the Punjab Service Tribunal, which had reduced the punishment for headmistress Shazia Iqbal. Iqbal had faced a forfeiture of five years of past service, later modified to one year by the tribunal. The allegations against her involved overlooking the misconduct of a special therapist who was reportedly harassing female teachers by blackmailing and threatening them.

Justice Mazhar highlighted the esteemed role of educational institutions as "alma mater" – nurturing centers that shape individuals' careers and personalities. The court stressed that these institutions deserve reverence and must provide a safe and healthy environment for all. The newly issued guidelines mandate educational bodies to implement foolproof systems to prevent harassment and ensure a conducive atmosphere for learning and professional growth.

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alma mater (nourishing mother), revered centres of learning and knowledge that shape a person’s career, intellectual development, professional identity and personality.