Sheikhupura library faces mismanagement claims as students, lawyers seek DC action

SHEIKHUPURA: A public library meant to support students preparing for competitive examinations has come under scrutiny after a group of students and practising lawyers lodged a formal complaint with the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Sheikhupura, alleging widespread mismanagement, staff absenteeism and the disappearance of public assets.

The applicants approached Deputy Commissioner Rana Adeel Tasawar, seeking immediate administrative intervention and legal action over what they described as deteriorating conditions at Fatima Jinnah Library in Company Bagh.

The complaint, signed by several local legal professionals, including Arshad Ali Advocate, Mian Zain Advocate and Saeed Ansari Advocate, highlights multiple administrative and operational shortcomings that have reportedly affected students relying on the facility for academic preparation.

One of the major allegations concerns the absence of the designated librarian, Iftikhar Ahmad, who is accused of remaining away from duty for several consecutive days. The applicants further alleged that an unauthorised private individual named Javed had been handling the library’s administrative affairs despite not being an official employee.

The complaint also raises questions over missing public property, with several sofas reportedly disappearing from the library premises. These sofas were intended to provide seating facilities for students, and the applicants have called for an investigation to establish what happened to the missing furniture and who should be held responsible.

Outdated academic resources are another major concern. According to the applicants, the available course books are five to six years old, while modern reference materials and updated editions needed for competitive examinations are largely unavailable.

The physical condition of the facility has also drawn criticism. Non-functional lights, broken chairs, malfunctioning air conditioners during the summer and the absence of safe drinking water have reportedly made the library increasingly uncomfortable for visitors.

The applicants also accused another staff member, identified as Farah, of frequently remaining absent and failing to assist students when present.

They urged the district administration to conduct a comprehensive inquiry, verify staff attendance, recover missing assets and ensure that the library provides the facilities expected of a public educational institution.

The complaint has prompted an initial response from the Deputy Commissioner’s office. The application was marked to the Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) General with the handwritten direction, “ADC (G), discuss please”, paving the way for administrative scrutiny.

Students and lawyers are now seeking concrete action, hoping the intervention will restore the library as a properly managed and well-equipped learning space for the city’s academic community.