Pims Fire Tragedy: PM Vows Accountability for Negligent Officials

In response to the devastating fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) that claimed the lives of 14 infants, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif convened an emergency meeting to address health sector issues and ensure accountability for negligence. The tragedy, which unfolded on August 26, has ignited a firestorm of public outrage and demands for justice.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Sharif firmly stated, "No leniency will be shown to officials found guilty of criminal negligence," reinforcing the government’s commitment to accountability. Health Minister Mustafa Kamal echoed this sentiment, assuring that those responsible for the incident would not escape punishment.

As part of the response to the inquiry into the fire, which was reportedly triggered by a spark in the nursery, eight officials have been named for potential criminal action. This includes former Pims executive director Prof Dr Imran Sikandar, who was dismissed after the incident, and several other key personnel, such as the head of neonatology and joint executive directors.

To enhance hospital safety and operations, the Prime Minister instructed Health Minister Kamal and Health Secretary Captain (retd) Muhammad Mahmood to ensure their presence at Pims on alternate days. They will oversee the implementation of improvements and safety measures within the facility.

However, concerns have been raised by parliamentary standing committees regarding the adequacy of the inquiry, particularly regarding incomplete CCTV footage and the number of infants present during the fire. MNA Mahesh Kumar Malani expressed dissatisfaction with the inquiry report, while the Senate committee scrutinized the hospital's fire safety protocols and systemic deficiencies.

Source: www.dawn.com