ISLAMABAD:
A local court in Islamabad ordered the reinstatement of Dr Ziaul Qayyum as Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission (HEC). However, despite the court’s orders, the HEC administration did not allow him to enter the premises.
Dr Ziaul Qayyum arrived at the HEC headquarters to resume charge in light of the court’s decision but was unable to formally assume office. According to sources, security personnel had been deployed at all entrances of the HEC Secretariat. When Dr Qayyum attempted to enter the premises, his vehicle was barred from entry.
All entry and exit gates of the HEC building were reportedly locked, and security officials informed Dr Qayyum that they had been directed by senior authorities not to allow any vehicles or individuals to enter.
Sources confirmed that a local Islamabad court had suspended the earlier orders removing Dr Qayyum from office during a hearing on Saturday. The written court order was issued the following day, based on which Dr Qayyum proceeded to the HEC for reinstatement. However, he was denied access to the building.
Speaking to The Express Tribune at the gate, Dr Qayyum alleged that he was mistreated and harassed by the gate staff, who refused him entry despite court orders. “No one has the authority to defy a court order,” he stated.
Sources further revealed that the Executive Director’s office had been locked and that all vehicle entry to the HEC premises had been suspended since morning. Later in the afternoon, Dr Qayyum returned to the HEC with a certified copy of the court’s decision but was still unable to officially take charge of his position.
