Syed Ali Shah:Â
Quetta: A tense situation erupted at the Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering, and Management Sciences (BUITEMS) on Thursday after a clash between students and security personnel. The incident resulted in injuries, including to Security Officer Hamdullah, and disrupted academic activities, spreading panic among students.
Videos circulating on social media captured the chaos, showing students and security personnel clashing in the university premises, smashing glass windows, and damaging property. Heavy police deployment followed the incident, with authorities tightening security across the campus.
Vice Chancellor Dr. Khalid Hafeez expressed serious concern over the incident. Speaking to Daily Quetta Voice via telephone, he said, “I am going to inquire about the health condition of our security guard.” Dr. Hafeez assured that the incident would be thoroughly investigated and the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
In response, the BUITEMS Staff Association strongly condemned the baton charge on teachers and the overall handling of the situation. According to the association, the Assistant Commissioner entered the training hall and claimed responsibility for ordering the baton charge. The association termed this a “shameful act” and called for accountability.
The association also criticized the removal of Security Officer Hamdullah, who they allege repeatedly faced challenges while standing up to students in such situations. They questioned the wisdom of creating personal enmities by putting lives at risk and called for better conflict management.
A delegation from the association met Pro Vice Chancellor Mirwise Kasi to discuss the incident, during which the Registrar reportedly stated that the police acted without permission from the institution.
The association has demanded a transparent investigation into the matter, medical expenses for the injured security officer, and a formal letter to the Chief Secretary calling for departmental action against the Assistant Commissioner. As a mark of protest, university staff announced plans to wear black armbands and observe black day tomorrow (today).
The incident has disrupted the academic environment at BUITEMS, leaving many questioning the measures in place to prevent such clashes in the future.
