PM approves suspension of eight officials over PIMS tragedy

LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the immediate suspension of eight officials over the PIMS tragedy and directed authorities to initiate departmental and criminal proceedings against those found responsible.

The decision was taken during a high-level meeting chaired by the prime minister in Lahore to review the findings of an inquiry committee formed to investigate the incident.

According to an official statement, the interim report of the inquiry committee was presented to the prime minister during the meeting. Based on the committee’s findings, the prime minister approved action against eight individuals and ordered proceedings under departmental rules as well as criminal law where applicable.

PIMS Executive Director Professor Dr Rana Imran Sikandar is among those facing action.

Sources said the inquiry report held several senior officials responsible for negligence and serious lapses in the management of the hospital. The committee had recommended removing around 10 officers from their positions, including senior administrative officials.

The report recommended action against PIMS Executive Director Rana Imran Sikandar, Deputy Executive Director Dr Aneesa, Joint Executive Director Iqbal Durrani, Deputy Director Hassan Nawaz and Joint Executive Director of Children’s Hospital Dr Mutahir Shah.

According to sources, the committee observed that the hospital was being run without an effective administrative structure and that senior officials had demonstrated serious negligence.

The inquiry committee also recommended appointing competent officials in place of those removed and establishing a permanent governing board for PIMS.

It said a formal governing body was essential to ensure effective supervision, administration and accountability at the hospital.

The tragedy occurred on August 26 when 14 newborn babies died after a fire broke out in the gynaecology ward of PIMS. The deaths sparked grief and anger among the affected families, who demanded DNA testing to identify the victims and strict action against those responsible.

The inquiry report reportedly incorporated statements from PIMS administration officials, doctors, fire brigade personnel and rescue teams. It also highlighted inadequate medical and emergency facilities at the hospital and raised concerns about its overall management and preparedness.