KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has ordered the provincial government to constitute a high-level inquiry committee, headed by the Sindh chief secretary, to investigate the HIV outbreak among children at Karachi’s Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital and submit its findings within two months.
A two-member bench, comprising Justice Adnanul Karim Memon and Justice Muhammad Jaffer Raza, directed that the committee include two Grade-20 officers with no direct administrative link to the hospital or the investigation.
What will the SHC inquiry investigate?
The court directed the committee to examine how the HIV infections occurred, including whether disposable syringes or other medical equipment were reused. It will also review records relating to the procurement, storage and use of auto-lock syringes, assess the responsibilities of medical, nursing, technical and administrative staff, and determine whether the Disposable Syringes Act or other applicable laws were violated.
The committee has been granted access to hospital records, reports and CCTV footage. If evidence establishes negligence or misconduct, it has been directed to recommend departmental or criminal action against those responsible.
What relief has the SHC ordered for affected children?
The SHC directed the Sindh government to ensure uninterrupted medical treatment for all affected children, with all healthcare costs, including medicines and diagnostic tests, to be covered by the provincial government or the relevant social security institution.
The court also ordered that compensation and other legal relief for affected children and their families be determined in accordance with the law, while directing authorities to protect the identities and medical records of the children and prevent any form of discrimination.