Lahore: Lahore High Court (LHC) while upholding the decision of provincial ombudsman in an important case of harassing the women at their work place has declared the step of sacking director management institute correct.

Justice Rahil Kamran Sheikh while issuing 17-page written decision on the petition filed by Omar Shahzad, maintained the women don't give vent to any immediate expression about the incident of harassment due to dignity, family status and social pressure. But this silence can neither be considered willingness nor the right to report the case can be snatched from them on this basis.

It was made clear in the court's decision harassment at work place is not limited to only office building . If any officer threatens a female or compels her for illicit relations by dint of his post or powers this falls too in ambit of harassment.

According to court the complainant female teacher alleged the petitioner looked at her with evil eyes, , sent messages for illicit relations and threatened to sack her in case of refusal from her side.

According to lady teacher, the petitioner came to her home in September 2022 and tried to rape her.

The petitioner took the plea the incident had taken place at work place and was outcome of personal grudge.

The court however maintained these allegations fall under misuse of powers. Raising question on the character of complainant does not provide justification to the attitude of the petitioner.

The court also rejected this objection that Mohtasib can not take action when criminal proceedings is underway besides making it clear the jurisdiction of Mohtasib Punjab relates to discipline while criminal case is a separate process.

LHC maintained no legal vacuum is there in the decisions of Mohtasib Punjab and governor.

The court rejected the plea of the petitioner for his reinstatement in job.