What happened at Gulshan Autism Centre?
In Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Iqbal area, an assistant at the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Autism Care and Rehabilitation Organization (ACRO) was dismissed after a CCTV clip circulated showing her allegedly assaulting an autistic child in a classroom. The incident, which reportedly occurred on September 26, and came to light when the footage was shared with parents on October 1, has prompted a police inquiry and calls for safeguarding reforms in autism-care facilities.
The teacher or caregiver identified in the clip is Safia Naz, who had been with ACRO for eight years. The organization’s spokesperson, Sardar Nadeem, told The Express Tribune that action had been taken and that a police report had been filed. ACRO said Safia Naz was terminated following an internal review triggered by the video’s circulation.
What the footage shows and the response
The CCTV footage allegedly depicts Safia Naz in a classroom with about a dozen children, including a boy aged roughly 10 to 12. The video shows the caregiver engaging in physical striking and ear-tearing, actions ACRO described as unacceptable and inexcusable. In the wake of the clip, ACRO reported that the staff questioned Safia Naz, who reportedly claimed that the child had bitten her hand and that she had been ill, dealing with a back problem and pain, which she said contributed to a sudden escalation. ACRO described Safia Naz’s response as reflecting the mental stress she was under, while noting this was her first formal complaint during her tenure there.
Karachi’s Gulshan-e-Iqbal SHO Rao Naeem Rajput confirmed that ACRO had submitted a formal application to the police on the evening of October 1. The incident dates back to late September, with parents of ACRO’s approximately 130 enrolled children becoming aware of the distressing footage through health officials who shared it widely.
Medico-legal and safeguarding steps
ACRO requested a medico-legal examination for the child involved, though local authorities cautioned that identifying injuries four days after the incident could be challenging unless the harm was severe. The police investigation and medico-legal review aim to determine the severity of any harm and to establish the appropriate course of action. ACRO indicated that the institution’s lawyer would release further details to the media as the case develops.
About ACRO and the broader context
ACRO describes itself as specializing in the education and training of children diagnosed with autism, a condition characterized by differences in social communication, repetitive behaviors, and challenges in adapting to societal norms. The center noted that Safia Naz had no prior formal complaints before this incident, underscoring concerns about safeguarding protocols in spaces dedicated to autism support. The incident highlights a broader debate about safeguarding training, supervision, and accountability in facilities serving vulnerable populations, particularly children with autism who may have heightened sensitivity to stress or physical cues.
What comes next for families and the community
As the investigation unfolds, parents and advocacy groups are calling for transparent investigations, independent safeguarding reviews, and clearer policies for disciplinary actions within autism-care facilities. The case also raises questions about ongoing monitoring, staff welfare, and the mental health supports available to caregivers who work with children with special needs. While ACRO has taken swift action against the employee involved, experts emphasize the need for robust safeguarding measures, ongoing staff training, and robust grievance mechanisms to protect the children who rely on such centers for education and daily care.
Bottom line
The firing of Safia Naz and the corresponding police inquiry at the Gulshan-e-Iqbal Autism Care and Rehabilitation Organization illustrate the seriousness with which alleged abuse against autistic children is treated in Karachi. As authorities continue their proceedings, the incident serves as a catalyst for discussions about child protection, caregiver support, and the overall safety standards governing autism-focused educational centers in Pakistan.
