Mehreen Bhutto seeks NA debate over PIMS tragedy

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) lawmaker Mehreen Razzaq Bhutto has submitted a Calling Attention Notice in the National Assembly over the tragic deaths of 14 newborn babies at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad.

Bhutto described the incident as extremely serious and deeply alarming. She said the deaths of innocent newborns had raised major concerns about safety arrangements at hospitals.

The lawmaker called for an urgent discussion in the National Assembly. She said the debate was necessary to determine the facts surrounding the incident and examine whether proper safety measures were in place.

According to the notice, the tragedy has also raised questions about emergency response systems in major public hospitals. It called for a detailed review of the arrangements used to protect patients, particularly newborn babies who require special care.

Bhutto demanded that the authorities identify those responsible for any negligence or failure that may have contributed to the deaths. She also called for effective measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The PPP lawmaker said such incidents should not be treated as routine accidents. She stressed the need for stronger safety protocols, better emergency preparedness and improved monitoring systems in hospitals.

The notice seeks to bring the matter before the National Assembly so that relevant authorities can explain the circumstances that led to the tragedy. It also aims to ensure that the families affected by the incident receive answers.

The tragedy occurred when a fire broke out in the nursery of the gynaecology ward at PIMS in Islamabad. Fourteen newborn babies died after being caught in the incident.

The deaths have raised serious concerns about fire safety and emergency arrangements inside hospital facilities. The incident has also drawn attention to the need for rapid evacuation procedures and properly equipped emergency systems in sensitive hospital areas.

Following the tragedy, the bodies of all 14 deceased newborns were handed over to their families