Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has raised serious concerns about alleged corruption in Pakistan’s healthcare sector.
Speaking at a ceremony in Sialkot, Asif claimed financial malpractice was widespread across the health system. He linked his concerns to the recent tragedy at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).
Asif described the incident as a wake-up call for authorities. He alleged that corruption contributed to failures surrounding the tragedy.
He also questioned the effectiveness of the country’s health regulatory system.
PIMS Nursery Fire Prompts Government Action
The remarks followed the deadly nursery fire at PIMS on August 26. The incident resulted in the deaths of 14 newborns.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later ordered action against officials following an inquiry into the tragedy.
According to the provided information, eight officials were suspended. The prime minister also directed authorities to begin criminal proceedings.
The inquiry identified serious administrative shortcomings and failures in fire-safety arrangements.
However, the exact cause of the fire still requires further investigation. Individual criminal responsibility also remains subject to further examination.
The prime minister directed authorities to accelerate reforms across the health sector.
He also ordered improvements at PIMS and stricter implementation of safety standards.
Officials found responsible for criminal negligence would face action, according to the government’s response.
Khawaja Asif Highlights Healthcare Needs in Sialkot
During his address, Khawaja Asif also discussed healthcare facilities available to workers in Sialkot.
He said the city has a large industrial workforce that deserves access to quality medical treatment.
Asif praised facilities being provided through social security hospitals. He said additional medical services were also planned for the city.
According to him, cancer treatment facilities will become available at hospitals in Sialkot.
A dedicated burns unit is also expected to be introduced.
These facilities could expand access to specialised healthcare for workers and other residents.
Questions Raised Over Hospital Regulation
The defence minister also raised concerns about hospital registration and regulatory oversight.
He claimed several major hospitals in Rawalpindi were operating without proper registration.
The claim prompted questions about how effectively healthcare institutions are being monitored.
Khawaja Asif argued that problems within the sector require greater attention from authorities.
Meanwhile, the Islamabad High Court has also taken notice of developments following the PIMS tragedy.
The court has sought the inquiry report submitted to the prime minister. It has also requested details about actions taken after the incident.
The latest developments have increased scrutiny of healthcare regulation, hospital safety, and administrative accountability in Pakistan.
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Government investigations and legal proceedings are expected to provide further clarity about responsibility for the PIMS tragedy.
