CM Maryam Takes Action After Infant Deaths at Pakpattan Hospital

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz ordered the arrest of two officials and suspended three doctors at Pakpattan’s District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital after the deaths of 20 infants. An internal inquiry committee reported that 15 of the deceased were neonates and newborns, with all deaths occurring between June 16 and June 22.

An external inquiry committee was formed to investigate the incident, focusing on oxygen failure, systemic shortcomings, and emergency response. CM Maryam visited the hospital, ordering arrests and suspensions. She directed the Deputy Commissioner to report to the Services and General Administration Department.

External reports linked infant deaths to referrals from unregistered private maternity hospitals and highlighted protocol violations. Several private hospitals were sealed. Development projects were discussed, and action was taken against overcharging by the hospital’s parking contractor.

An audit of medical equipment was initiated, and emergency response systems were mandated across public hospitals in Punjab. CM Maryam interacted with staff and patients, addressing complaints of medicine unavailability despite allocated funds. A letter warning of oxygen shortage had surfaced online, contradicting earlier statements.

According to the source: Dawn.