The appointment of the acting Vice-Chancellor of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Medical University (SMBBMU) Prof Hakim Abro was challenged in the Sindh High Court (SHC) for violation of merit on Saturday. The notification of Hakim Abro’s appointment was challenged by Prof Akbar Bhand in the Sindh High Court in Karachi on the basis of violation of merit and legal requirements as Prof Akbar Bhand was the most deserving and senior candidate for the aforementioned post. A two-member SHC bench consisting of Justice Muhammad Junaid Ghaffar and Justice Agha Faisal heard the petition. After hearing the petition, the court issued notices to the Sindh Chief Minister, Chief Secretary and Secretary Universities and Boards.

In stern remarks over the appointment of vice-chancellor in the university, one of the judges asked: “Prof Akbar Bhand was first in seniority in the summary sent to the Sindh Chief Minister by the University and Boards. On what grounds the order notification of the fourth numbered, excluding the first numbered in seniority has been issued?” Moreover, the court has also summoned all the parties for hearing of the case on October 5. Meanwhile, Professor Akbar Bhand expressed optimism, saying he is expecting justice from the court. He stated that it is an utter mockery of merit as seniority principles have been disregarded in the appointment procedure.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan-INP