MULTAN: A joint inquiry committee investigating the HIV infection of 31 dialysis patients at Nishtar Hospital has submitted its report to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, recommending disciplinary measures against several officials.
The committee called for the removal of Nishtar Medical University Vice Chancellor Dr Mehnaz Khakwani for administrative negligence, including failure to implement and monitor standard operating procedures. It also suggested a one-year suspension from public service for her.
Former Head of Nephrology Dr Ghulam Abbas was accused of withholding information about HIV-positive cases and failing to issue necessary directives; the committee recommended his compulsory retirement.
Associate Professor Dr Poonam Khalid was found frequently absent and negligent in ward management, leading to a recommended three-year demotion and a fine equivalent to one month’s salary.
Former Medical Superintendent Dr Muhammad Kazim was censured and faced a one-year withholding of his annual increment for failing to promptly address the outbreak and improper appointment.
Dr Maleeha Johar, Dr Alamgir Malik, and Head Nurse Naheed Parveen were acquitted.
The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) Multan questioned the inquiry’s integrity, alleging the report focused on penalizing the university’s first female vice chancellor rather than investigating how the virus spread. PMA also noted the lack of genetic sequencing to confirm transmission through dialysis and raised concerns about unauthorized medical practitioners.
