ISLAMABAD: Federal Health Minister Mustafa Kamal has vowed strict action against anyone found responsible for the deaths of 14 newborns in the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) fire, insisting that the tragedy will not be allowed to fade from public attention.
Speaking in the Senate on Friday, Kamal said he considered himself accountable as the federal health minister and had presented himself for scrutiny over the incident.
“I am the health minister. I consider myself responsible,” he said, while urging lawmakers and the public to wait for the findings of the ongoing investigation before drawing conclusions.
The minister said an inquiry committee had already been formed and was expected to submit its report by Friday night. He stressed that any decision must be based on evidence, including digital records, video footage and statements from eyewitnesses and affected families.
Kamal said all relevant institutions had been directed to fully cooperate with investigators and assured the Senate that no official found negligent would be protected.
“Whoever is found negligent will not be spared. Not a single individual will be spared,” he said.
The health minister also backed the formation of a parliamentary committee, suggesting that lawmakers from both the opposition and government should be included. He said a joint committee of the National Assembly and Senate could also examine the tragedy, with the Ministry of Health ready to provide all relevant information.
Responding to demands for his resignation, Kamal said he would address the issue after the inquiry was completed, adding that action had already been taken beyond what critics expected.
Parliament moves to establish special committee
Separately, both the National Assembly and Senate approved motions on Friday to establish a special parliamentary committee to investigate issues surrounding the PIMS tragedy.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar moved the motion in the National Assembly, while Senator Sherry Rehman presented it in the Senate.
The Senate authorised Chairman Yousaf Raza Gilani to constitute the committee, while the National Assembly empowered Speaker Ayaz Sadiq to form the body.
The Senate chairman and National Assembly speaker will consult on the committee’s composition, membership and terms of reference.
The special parliamentary panel will examine the circumstances and other matters related to the deadly PIMS fire.
Meanwhile, the federal government has announced Rs5 million in compensation for the family of each newborn who died in the blaze.
The government said it stood with the bereaved families and would provide them with all possible assistance, while acknowledging that no financial compensation could make up for the loss of a child.
