The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) has imposed a fine of Rs20 million on Fatima Jinnah Medical University in connection with the death of its student, Fariha Ibrahim, in a hostel.
According to details, the PMDC’s disciplinary committee decided to impose the fine after reviewing the facts surrounding the incident.
The university had also been directed to take additional measures to ensure the safety and well-being of its students.
According to official documents, the university was instructed to introduce medical health check-ups for students, strengthen monitoring and supervision, provide counselling services for female students, implement measures to prevent harassment, and launch mentorship programmes.
Following Fariha Ibrahim’s death, the PMDC had sought details of the incident and an explanation from the university.
After approval from the PMDC Council, the decision to impose the fine was formally communicated to Fatima Jinnah Medical University.
Meanwhile, Fatima Jinnah Medical University has filed a review petition challenging the decision to impose the Rs20 million fine.
Reason behind the incident
Fareeha was a fifth-year MBBS student preparing for her final-year exams.
Reports indicate that she had recently appeared for a surgery paper and had expressed concerns about her performance. Authorities say the reasons for her actions are still under investigation.
Initial reports suggested that she may have slipped. However, police and university officials have indicated that it was a deliberate act.
Family, background
Fareeha was originally from Azad Kashmir and had moved to Lahore for her studies.
Her father is a government employee. She was residing in the university hostel at the time of the incident.