The deaths of 20 newborns at the District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital in Pakpattan between June 16 and June 22 have triggered widespread concern and led to an official investigation. A fact-finding committee assigned to look into the matter has now concluded its inquiry.
The tragic series of deaths has been attributed to suspected medical negligence and inadequate healthcare infrastructure at the hospital. The most distressing day was June 19, when five infants died in a single day in the pediatric ward.
Initial reports indicate that 15 of the 20 infants had been referred to DHQ Pakpattan from various private hospitals, while three were delivered at home before being brought in for care.
Grieving families have raised serious allegations against the hospital staff, claiming poor medical attention and shortages of essential supplies like oxygen as the leading causes of the deaths.
In response to public outcry and media scrutiny, a three-member inquiry committee was set up under the direction of the Sahiwal Commissioner. The team includes officials from the Sahiwal Teaching Hospital and representatives from the Punjab Health Department.
The committee has completed its review and is expected to submit its final report by July 2. Authorities are likely to take action based on the committee’s findings once the report is formally submitted.
