ISLAMABAD: Federal Health Secretary has been removed from his post following the deadly fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (Pims) Children’s ICU that killed 14 children, with a source saying the action was linked to his alleged failure to comply with repeated directives to inspect hospitals in Islamabad.
According to a source familiar with the matter, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had directed the health secretary on several occasions to personally visit hospitals, particularly Pims, and assess treatment standards, facilities and arrangements for patients.
The secretary was also instructed to ensure the availability of modern equipment and electromedical devices but reportedly failed to undertake the required inspections.
The source said the prime minister had reiterated the directive four days before the Pims fire, but the visit did not take place. Following the deaths, the health secretary was removed from his position.
Has responsibility for the Pims tragedy been determined?
The removal of the health secretary does not, by itself, establish full responsibility for the fire, according to the source.
An inquiry committee formed to investigate the incident is preparing its findings for the prime minister. The committee is expected to identify administrative and operational lapses and determine responsibility at different levels.
Further action against officials could follow once the inquiry report is submitted.
The incident has also raised questions about the possible removal of Health Minister Mustafa Kamal. However, no decision regarding the minister had been confirmed as of Friday evening.
The source said any action against the health minister would largely depend on whether the inquiry committee assigns responsibility to him or other officials.
Could more officials face action?
The deadly fire has intensified calls for accountability at Pims and other major public-sector hospitals.
The inquiry is expected to examine whether hospital oversight mechanisms were functioning properly and whether senior officials adequately monitored critical-care facilities.
The government’s initial response was to remove the health secretary, but the final scope of accountability will depend on the inquiry committee’s findings.
Officials found responsible for administrative or operational failures could face further action after the report is submitted.