By Hina Kiyani
ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PM&DC) has intensified its investigation into the recent medical student suicide case.
According to PM&DC, the council is actively investigating recent cases of student suicides, including the tragic death of Ms Fahmeeda Laghari, a third-year student at Muhammad Medical College, Mirpurkhas.
In continuation of these proceedings, the President of PM&DC, Prof Dr Rizwan Taj, has constituted a fact-finding committee to conduct a parallel inquiry, to expedite the process, ensuring independent assessment, and gathering detailed information in the Fahmeeda Laghari case.
In this regard, a senior female officer from PM&DC was deputed to visit the bereaved family. She conveyed condolences on behalf of the Council and collected firsthand information regarding the events leading to the incident.
The officer also visited the affected student’s home, where she met with family members to gain a clearer understanding of the circumstances surrounding this deeply distressing event. Her report has been formally submitted and is currently under review as part of the ongoing proceedings.
According to the family’s version, the deceased had been experiencing significant stress in the days preceding the incident, allegedly due to continuous harassment by certain individuals, including fellow students.
The family further stated that complaints had been brought to the attention of the college administration; however, they believe that no effective action was taken.
Relevant material and preliminary evidence have been shared, while further clarity is awaited through forensic examination of mobile data.
President PM&DC earlier conducted a preliminary hearing, which was convened on April 21, 2026, during which the college administration was summoned to present its position along with complete institutional records. After which, the cases were referred to the Disciplinary Committee for proceedings. He has taken immediate and sustained cognizance of the Fahmeeda Laghari case since its reporting, ensuring that the matter is addressed with urgency, sensitivity, and in accordance with due process.
He has strongly condemned the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly the serious allegations of harassment, and described the loss of a young medical student under such conditions as deeply alarming. PM&DC emphasizes that these statements represent the family’s perspective and are subject to verification through due process.
Under the direct supervision of the President of PM&DC, the council has formally requisitioned complete records from the institution and relevant authorities, including details of the incident, outcomes of internal and governmental inquiries, and measures taken by the college administration.
The council continues to closely monitor compliance, and the case remains under active review. Prof Dr Rizwan Taj reiterated that any failure by an institution to provide a safe academic environment or to implement mandatory anti-harassment mechanisms constitutes a serious violation of PM&DC regulations and will result in strict disciplinary action.
Reaffirming the council’s proactive stance, all medical and dental institutions across the country have been directed to ensure that anti-harassment committees are not only established but are fully functional, responsive, and accessible to students for timely redressal of complaints.
Students have also been advised that, in cases where institutional mechanisms fail, they may directly approach the PM&DC Harassment Committee.
PM&DC has assured that the council will continue to pursue the matter diligently to its logical conclusion, ensuring accountability wherever established.
The council remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding the dignity, safety, and mental well-being of all students within medical and dental institutions across Pakistan. Negligence or misconduct in this regard will not be tolerated.
