Sindh govt suspends University of Sindh pro-VC after viral videos of alleged intoxication on campus

KARACHI: The Sindh government has placed Professor Azhar Shah, pro-vice chancellor of the University of Sindh’s Dadu campus, under suspension following the circulation of videos on social media that allegedly show him intoxicated, using inappropriate language, and disturbing the campus environment.

An official notification issued by the Universities and Boards Department on February 10 directed the vice chancellor of the University of Sindh to suspend Prof Shah immediately and initiate a formal inquiry under the Sindh University Act and relevant service regulations.

The inquiry is required to be completed within 15 days, and its findings are to be submitted to the provincial minister for universities and boards for further action.

Sindh Minister for Universities and Boards Muhammad Ismail Rahoo confirmed the suspension, emphasising that the government acted to uphold institutional discipline and protect the credibility of public sector universities.

The videos, widely circulated online, reportedly depict Prof Shah under the influence of alcohol during working hours, sparking public criticism and calls for administrative intervention.

Following the suspension, Prof Shah has also been relieved of his additional responsibilities as Focal Person of the Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto Shaheed Sindh University Campus in Dadu. Professor Dr Anila Naz Soomro, currently serving as Focal Person at the Khan Bahadur Allahando Shah Campus in Naushehro Feroze, has been assigned to oversee the Dadu campus on an interim basis until further notice.

The notification further instructed the establishment of a fact-finding committee to investigate the matter thoroughly. The committee is expected to submit a complete report within three days, which will help determine subsequent administrative or disciplinary steps. Upon completion of the inquiry, the case will be presented to the university’s syndicate, the highest decision-making authority within the institution, for review and approval of any final actions.

No formal statement has been issued by Prof Shah or the University of Sindh regarding the allegations. The case has been widely reported and discussed on social media platforms, reflecting growing public interest in accountability and governance in higher education institutions.

Provincial regulations clarify that suspension is a temporary administrative measure intended to allow a fair and transparent investigation. It does not constitute a finding of guilt, and any further disciplinary measures will be determined only after the inquiry and approval of the competent authority.