Javed Iqbal summoned in Tayyaba Gul harassment case

In a significant development, the Federal Ombudsman Secretariat for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) has issued notices to former National Accountability Bureau (NAB) chairman Justice (retd) Javed Iqbal and 11 others in the Tayyaba Gul harassment case. The notices come following a hearing conducted by FOSPAH Chairperson Fauzia Viqar in response to a complaint filed by Gul in 2022, alleging sexual harassment and rape by the former NAB head and other officials of the anti-graft watchdog.

Tayyaba Gul, whose controversial video with the ex-NAB chairman surfaced in 2019, had leveled serious allegations against Iqbal, including sexual harassment during her visit to the NAB office. These allegations were vehemently denied by the former NAB chief.

During the FOSPAH hearing, Gul accused Iqbal of blackmail and coercion for “indecent acts” in exchange for her application to be heard. She alleged harassment and rape by NAB officials after her arrest, claiming threats and false charges orchestrated by Iqbal and DG NAB Shehzad Saleem.

The former NAB chief dismissed these claims, citing Gul’s medical report submitted to the NAB Court, and labeled her a “fraud.”

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FOSPAH, after recording Gul’s statement, issued notices to the accused, including Iqbal, Saleem, and investigation officer Imran Dogar, directing them to appear in person on January 16. The accused are expected to record their statements in response to the serious allegations.

The development marks a crucial step in addressing harassment concerns and underscores the commitment to a fair and transparent investigation. The summoning of key figures in the case reflects the importance of ensuring justice and accountability in addressing allegations of harassment and misconduct.

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