PIMS fire fallout: ED Imran Sikandar removed

Executive Director of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Dr Imran Sikandar has been directed to leave his position until the completion of a comprehensive investigation into the hospital tragedy.

Hospital sources said Dr Sikandar left his office on Saturday after taking his personal belongings and files with him. Before his departure, he also held a meeting with senior officers and staff members close to him.

Sources within the Ministry of Health said the PIMS executive director had been asked to remain away from his post until the inquiry into the incident was completed.

The development comes after 14 newborn babies died in a fire at the gynaecology ward of PIMS on August 26. The deaths left the affected families devastated, with parents demanding DNA testing to identify the victims and action against those responsible for the tragedy.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also convened a high-level meeting in Lahore to review the investigation report. Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal and other relevant officials are expected to attend the meeting.

The prime minister will receive a briefing on the findings and is expected to issue further directives in light of the inquiry committee’s recommendations.

An initial investigation report had already been submitted to the prime minister, recommending action against officials held responsible for the incident as well as relevant staff members who were absent at the time.

According to sources, the inquiry committee has identified the causes of the tragedy and determined responsibility. Statements from PIMS administration officials, doctors, fire brigade personnel and rescue teams have been incorporated into the report.

The inquiry also highlighted serious shortcomings in the hospital’s medical and emergency facilities. The report reportedly observed that several facilities at PIMS did not meet required international standards.