KARACHI: The controversial selection board of the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUASST) has been embroiled in another row after it reportedly took deposits from candidates on positions of lecturers to file a lawsuit.
The revelation has raised concerns over the role of Professor Dr Zarina, who has been performing the duties of Secretary Selection Board without any official order. It was earlier reported that the acting administration of FUAAST had ignored transparency in the examination for the 2013 and 2017 selection boards and issued the test results.
The examinations were held this year for various subjects but a majority of the candidates instead of solving the papers lodged complaints against the varsity’s administration. The candidates complained about the subjects and the participation of staff members in the selection process.
Consequently, the assessment has not been completed due to various disputes, allegations and lawsuits while the controversy ensues against the selection board.
It has been revealed that three candidates for lecturers have approached the Sindh High Court against the selection board who issued a restraining order. The candidates who cleared the test and interview were contacted and informed a lawsuit will be filed to become party to the case.
The candidates were told to submit Rs10,000 per candidate and were guaranteed their clearance in the confidential results. An amount of around one million has been collected by Prof Dr Zarina Ali and lecturer Syed Iqbal Hussain Naqvi. The university’s lawyer, who charged Rs150,000 per month, was removed and another counsel was hired. The Supreme Court eventually lifted the restraining order.
Meanwhile, several candidates who paid Rs10,000 have raised questions on being party to the case and hiring a separate lawyer, demanding the money should be returned. The demand has gained momentum and many teachers and candidates want a refund.
This controversy has raised several questions. The results of the selection board cannot be disclosed until it is approved by the university’s Senate. There are concerns on who provided the confidential information to Prof Dr Zarina Ali and Iqbal Hussain Naqvi, making them demands funds from the cleared candidates.
This also leaves a mark on the role of Dr Zarina Ali who continues to perform her duties as secretary in all stages of the selection board despite an official order. The candidates could approach the law enforcement agencies for a refund. Dr Zarina Ali did respond not when contacted
