LAHORE: Punjab University is reviewing allegations that private chickens were being kept inside the official building of its Electrical Engineering Department, with claims that university facilities and staff were used for their care.
The allegations have drawn attention after reports claimed the birds were housed on the department’s rooftop and lawn, raising questions about the use of public resources and campus space. A university spokesperson said no permission had been granted to keep private poultry on the department’s premises and confirmed that the matter would be examined.
Allegations Over Use of University Facilities
According to the reported claims, Electrical Engineering Department Director Dr. Kamran Abid had rooftop enclosures constructed to keep chickens within the department’s official building.
The report further alleged that a protective fence costing around Rs500,000 was installed on the department’s lawn to secure the birds. It also claimed the fencing blocked a route commonly used by students to access the university’s main library.
Additional allegations stated that government employees assigned to the department were involved in caring for the privately owned chickens during working hours.
Claims of Air-Conditioned Shelter for Chickens
The report also alleged that, during the summer heat, the chickens were moved from the rooftop into a hall inside the Electrical Engineering Department building. It claimed the birds were provided access to government-funded cooling facilities, including air conditioners and air coolers.
According to the same report, poultry feed was also stored inside a classroom.
University and Director Respond
Punjab University spokesperson said the university had not authorized the keeping of private chickens within the Electrical Engineering Department and that the administration would look into the allegations.
Responding to the claims, Dr. Kamran Abid said the chickens were kept to provide female students with a natural environment. He added that more birds could be introduced in the future as part of the same idea.
Dr. Kamran Abid is also reported to be a candidate for vice chancellor positions at the University of Sargodha and the University of Sahiwal.
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