Tensions Rise Between Colleges Directorate and APCA Over Strike Call in Rawalpindi Division
Rawalpindi: A tense situation has developed within the Directorate of Colleges, Rawalpindi Division, following friction between the administration and the All Pakistan Clerks Association (APCA). The atmosphere in official offices and colleges has grown uncertain after APCA’s announcement of a pen-down strike and subsequent directives issued by the Directorate of Colleges.
According to internal communications, Acting Director Colleges Professor Amjad Iqbal Khattak instructed principals of male and female colleges in Rawalpindi not to grant leave to clerical staff during the announced strike. Principals were further directed to ensure staff attendance so that routine official work continues uninterrupted. These instructions were reportedly circulated through WhatsApp groups.
The issue has also sparked discussions within the Principals Forum, with reports suggesting that informal consultations are already underway. Some principals have expressed concerns that the dispute could negatively impact the functioning of colleges. Sources indicated that one group of principals appears inclined to support the Directorate’s stance, with suggestions that a resolution in favor of the administration is under consideration.
Observers within academic circles caution that the ongoing tensions, if not addressed, could worsen the working environment. They note that prolonged friction between administrative staff and clerical associations has the potential to disrupt academic and official processes. Senior educators have stressed the importance of handling the matter with patience and dialogue to prevent further escalation.
Efforts to obtain a formal comment from the Principals Forum’s General Secretary, Professor Athar Qaseem, were unsuccessful as he could not be reached.
