Questions raised over cheques worth more than Rs10.5 million from Sir Syed University accounts

Concerns have emerged over the financial affairs of Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology following claims that cheques

KARACHI:  Concerns have emerged over the financial affairs of Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology following claims that cheques worth more than Rs10.5 million were issued from the university’s accounts under the head of legal expenses amid an ongoing electoral dispute involving the institution and the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association.

The matter has raised questions about financial transparency, the use of educational funds and the need for accountability in the management of university resources. However, the circumstances surrounding the reported payments and their connection, if any, with the ongoing legal proceedings require clarification from the university administration.

Universities play a significant role in educating students, developing professional skills and preparing future generations for leadership. Their financial resources are expected to be managed responsibly, with appropriate oversight and transparent procedures. Allegations concerning substantial expenditures from educational institutions therefore warrant clarification through relevant records and official explanations.

According to the claims circulating in connection with the electoral dispute between Sir Syed University and the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association, cheques exceeding Rs10.5 million were allegedly issued from the university’s financial accounts under the category of legal expenses on two separate dates in February 2026.

The first set of transactions reportedly took place on February 11, 2026, when the Sindh High Court granted a temporary stay order against an order issued by the district court. It has been claimed that cheques worth more than Rs7 million were issued from the university’s accounts on the same day.

The timing of the reported payments has prompted questions about the nature of the expenditure, the legal services for which the funds were allocated and whether the transactions were connected to the court proceedings surrounding the electoral dispute.

A further claim concerns February 25, 2026, when additional cheques amounting to approximately Rs3.5 million were reportedly issued under the same head of legal expenses.

If the reported figures are accurate, the combined value of the cheques issued on the two dates would exceed Rs10.5 million. The available information, however, does not establish whether the payments were made to legal representatives, firms or other recipients, nor does it provide a detailed breakdown of the expenses.

The reported transactions have consequently prompted calls for the university administration to explain the purpose of the payments and disclose the relevant financial details in accordance with applicable rules and procedures.

Questions have also been raised about the timing of the transactions in relation to the ongoing court proceedings. Establishing whether any direct connection exists between the legal dispute and the reported expenditure would require examination of the relevant financial documents, payment records and legal engagement details.

The university administration is being urged to provide a clear explanation of the transactions, including the approvals obtained, the services covered and the procedures followed in releasing the funds.

No conclusion regarding financial misconduct can be drawn from the timing or value of the reported cheques alone. A transparent response from the university would help clarify the circumstances and address concerns regarding the responsible use of institutional resources.

The matter highlights the importance of financial accountability and proper documentation in educational institutions, particularly when substantial public-interest questions arise over the management of university funds.