What began as another workday for Usman Ali ended in tragedy, now under police investigation. Here’s what we know so far.
A tragic incident at The City School’s Regional Head Office in Karachi has sparked outrage and raised questions about workplace culture in private institutions. On September 2, 25-year-old Usman Ali died after falling from the building’s eighth floor. His death has since led to a manslaughter case against three staff members.
According to police, the FIR was lodged at the Brigade Police Station under Sections 322 (manslaughter without intention) and 34 (criminal act with common intention) of the Pakistan Penal Code. The complaint was filed by Ali’s brother, who stated that just before his death, Usman had left a Facebook note naming three colleagues he accused of subjecting him to “mental torture.”
Former employees of The City School have also spoken up, describing the workplace as toxic, high-pressure, and unforgiving. Accounts from staff allege crushing workloads, constant fear of termination, and HR policies that exist only on paper. Some ex-employees claimed that even final dues were withheld after resignation, painting a troubling picture of the environment behind the polished image of one of Pakistan’s most prominent school networks.
At present, the school has not issued an official statement. The Express Tribune reached out to its representatives, but no comment was available at the time of reporting. Meanwhile, Usman’s family has requested privacy as they grieve their loss.
Beyond the Case
This tragedy forces a much-needed conversation on workplace culture in Pakistan. In too many institutions, especially within the private education sector, employees work under relentless pressure with little regard for mental health. HR systems, where they exist, often fail to protect staff and instead serve as tools of control rather than support.
Workplaces cannot thrive on fear. Psychological safety, fair treatment, and accessible mental health support are not luxuries, they are necessities. Until organizations recognize that employee well-being is directly tied to performance and trust, such stories will keep repeating, and accountability will always come too late.
Sources: Tribune, Dawn
