SHERINGAL: The Vice Chancellor of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University Sheringal survived an assassination attempt on Monday after PSF activists allegedly stormed the administration block and attacked university officials.
According to university administration, the incident occurred after Peoples Students Federation (PSF) requested permission to hold a political oath-taking ceremony on campus. Citing the current situation, the administration denied permission.
Following the denial, PPP leaders including former federal minister Najmuddin Khan, Arifullah Khan, Shah Wali Khan, Israr Yousafzai, Nizamuddin and others announced the event would be held on the main road in front of the university’s main gate. PSF workers gathered there and speeches were delivered.
Witnesses said that after the event, some violent PSF workers ran toward the Administration Block and attacked the Vice Chancellor and other officers.
Attackers broke doors and glass windows, used sticks and stones, and damaged government property. They specifically broke into the Vice Chancellor’s office and assaulted him with sticks.
University staff, including Admin Officer Arshad Iqbal, shielded the Vice Chancellor with their own bodies and saved him from serious injury. Other administrative officers were also beaten.
The university administration said police were informed immediately at 3:38 PM to DSP and Sheringal Police Station. However, police reached the scene at 4:10 PM, a delay of 32 minutes , by which time the attackers had fled.
The VC condemned the attack in the strongest terms. “If a Grade-22 officer is not safe in an institution and can easily become a victim of a terrorist attack, then who will protect other employees and students, and how?” he said.
He directed the Registrar and Director Administration to initiate strict legal proceedings immediately and ensure all those involved are brought to justice.
The administration maintains that denying permission for political activities on campus was a necessary decision given the prevailing circumstances.
An FIR is expected to be registered against the attackers. DPO Dir Bala has been contacted for further investigation.
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