AC management denies entry to ousted principal

The management of Aitchison College (AC) barred the college's principal Dr Agha Ghazanfar from entering the university's premises on Thursday.

Ghazanfar, who was ousted from his post by Aitchison College Board of Governors in July, was reinstated by the Lahore High Court on August 23. However, when the principal attempted to enter the college premises or his residence located inside the college, the management refused to allow him entry. Ghazanfar had filed a petition in the Lahore High Court against his ouster following which the court ordered his reinstatement on August 13.

In July, Dr Ghazanfar informed the media that he was under immense pressure from influential quarters regarding admissions. He had said this year the admission process had been fair and transparent as merit lists were made public.

On the other hand, the college's board of governors had said several administrative issues had emerged between the principal and rest of the staff. Mustafa Ramday, a member of the BoG, said the decision was based on petty issues. "I strongly disagree with the decision made by the majority of the board," he said. He said the school had ensured transparent admissions this year and none had been challenged. Last year, he said, around 70 writ petitions challenging the admissions had been filed. Calling the decision unfortunate, he said a wrong precedent was being set.

He said a controversy had been created surrounding admissions even though the chief minister had strongly directed the principal to ensure merit. "The principal only followed the admission policy as defined by the Board which made merit the only factor," he said.

Tuesday's was the fourth meeting held by the Board since June to discuss the appointment of the principal. They had earlier met on June 8, June 15 and June 22. Dr Ghazanfar was appointed seven months ago. The institution's website still lists him as the principal.