FOSPAH fines Rs10mn to private bank, 9 accused

Islamabad: The Federal Ombudsman Secretariat for Protection Against Harassment (FOSPAH) has imposed a fine of Rs10 million on a private bank and nine accused of non-discrimination.

According to the spokesperson, the Federal Ombudsman for Anti-Harassment has ruled in favor of a senior female employee who was forced to resign from the bank.

FOSPAH imposed a fine of Rs5 million on the nine accused, 50 percent of the fine amount was ordered to be deposited directly with the complainant and 50 percent in the national treasury as a penalty. The bank was also ordered to pay Rs5 million as compensation to the woman.

The complainant was the most senior female employee of the bank and was allegedly subjected to gender-based discrimination for several years.

The victim provided documentary evidence and pointed out unequal treatment based on gender. The complainant was denied promotion because she was a woman.

The FOSPAH identified a clear lack of adherence to the principles of equal protection and fair opportunity at the bank.