PAKPATTAN – Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif ordered the arrest of Dr. Adnan Ghaffar, Medical Superintendent (MS) of DHQ Hospital Pakpattan, and Dr. Sohail Asghar, CEO Health Pakpattan, following the tragic deaths of 20 children, mostly newborns.
The action came during CM Maryam Nawaz’s surprise visit to the hospital, where she received multiple complaints from patients and attendants about the shortage of medicines and substandard medical facilities.
Initial Inquiry Findings
A preliminary investigation revealed that the majority of the deceased infants were brought in after complications during delivery at private clinics or by untrained midwives. Many of the babies arrived at DHQ Pakpattan in critical condition and without their mothers, making medical intervention more difficult.
Contrary to initial speculations, no evidence of oxygen shortage was found—45 oxygen cylinders were reportedly available at the time of the incidents.
A clinical audit was carried out to evaluate the timing and quality of emergency care provided to the newborns. The findings were compiled by the Punjab Health Department in coordination with the Sahiwal Commissioner.
Administrative Action
In response to the inquiry, the health department sealed four private hospitals found to be operating without adequate medical standards.
The arrests and closures reflect the provincial government’s effort to hold officials accountable and address the growing concerns over healthcare negligence in the region.
