Man Fined Rs1 Million for WhatsApp Harassment as Pakistan Enforces Stronger Digital Workplace Protections

In a landmark decision reinforcing Pakistan’s stance against digital harassment, Hassan Ali Khan Leghari has been fined Rs1 million for sending indecent messages via WhatsApp to Syeda Gulbadan Shahid. The verdict, originally issued by Pakistan’s Federal Ombudsperson for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPA), has now been upheld by the President’s office, marking a significant step in the legal handling of harassment cases in digital and workplace environments.

Leghari was accused of violating the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act by sending inappropriate and unwanted messages to the complainant. While he initially denied the accusations, the Federal Ombudsperson found him guilty, issuing both a fine and a ruling against him. Seeking to challenge the decision, Leghari appealed to the President’s office to overturn the judgment; however, his appeal was ultimately rejected, solidifying the ruling and the Rs1 million fine.

This case sets a new precedent in Pakistan’s legal system, highlighting the country’s commitment to holding individuals accountable for harassment in both physical and digital spaces. A spokesperson for the Federal Ombudsperson’s office emphasized the importance of this case, describing Leghari’s actions as a clear breach of workplace protection laws. The upholding of this ruling at the presidential level demonstrates Pakistan’s dedication to protecting women from harassment and ensuring a safe environment, both online and offline.

The reinforcement of this verdict sends a powerful message to workplaces and individuals across Pakistan, underscoring that harassment—whether in person or through digital channels—will not be tolerated and will be met with strict legal consequences.