Lawmakers Voice Alarm Over Rising HIV Cases in Taunsa and Demand Inquiry into Medical College Deaths
By Bilal Haider :
A parliamentary committee has expressed concern over a sharp rise in HIV infections in Taunsa, where more than 300 cases have been reported, and called for a detailed briefing from health authorities.
The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Health Services, chaired by Mahesh Kumar Malani, described the situation as alarming and said it would seek further information, including how international funding allocated to tackle the outbreak has been used.
Committee members also raised concerns over reported deaths in medical colleges, including cases described as suicides in parts of Punjab and Mirpurkhas. The panel directed the relevant ministry to conduct thorough investigations and present findings alongside measures to prevent such incidents.
The concerns come amid renewed scrutiny of healthcare standards in Taunsa, where a surge in HIV cases was first reported last year. A recent investigation by BBC alleged ongoing malpractice in a government hospital’s children’s ward, months after authorities pledged action following an earlier outbreak affecting young patients.
According to the report, despite assurances of a crackdown and administrative changes, conditions at the facility had not significantly improved, raising questions about oversight and patient safety.
During the meeting, the committee also reviewed proposed legislation concerning the Pakistan Nursing and Midwifery Council and recommended its approval with amendments.
Separately, officials informed the panel that future Medical and Dental College Admission Test schedules would be aligned more closely with the completion of intermediate and Cambridge examinations to avoid delays for students.
Authorities added that most previously vacant medical college seats had now been filled following coordinated efforts, benefiting a large number of applicants.
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