By Uzma Ehtasham
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Monday directed authorities to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards negligence in healthcare services after a number of HIV cases were detected at the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI)-run Kulsum Bai Valika Hospital in Karachi.
Chairing a high-level review meeting at the Chief Minister’s House, Murad Ali Shah expressed serious concern over the reported cases and sought detailed briefings from health officials and relevant departments. He said protecting patients from preventable infections was the government’s foremost responsibility and no compromise would be accepted in maintaining healthcare standards.
The chief minister ordered strict accountability measures against those found responsible for negligence. He also directed authorities to strengthen infection-control procedures across medical facilities and conduct comprehensive audits of all SESSI hospitals throughout the province.
Officials were instructed to review existing medical practices, laboratory procedures and safety protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. The chief minister emphasised that hospitals must ensure a safe environment for patients, particularly vulnerable children and families relying on public healthcare services.
During the meeting, Murad Ali Shah announced the establishment of a Rs2 billion endowment fund for the treatment, welfare and rehabilitation of children affected by HIV. The fund was aimed at providing long-term medical support and social assistance to affected families.
The Sindh government said special attention would be given to medical care, counselling and rehabilitation programmes for HIV-positive children. The chief minister directed concerned departments to coordinate efforts and ensure that affected patients received continuous support.
The review meeting came amid growing concerns over healthcare safety standards and highlighted the need for stronger monitoring mechanisms in public hospitals across Sindh. The government vowed to improve accountability and restore public confidence in the province’s healthcare system.
