By Imtiaz Hussain
KHAIRPUR: Pakistan People’s Party leader and MNA Dr Nafisa Shah Jillani inaugurated the AMA (Bhawan Bai Makhija) Psychiatric and Drug Rehabilitation Ward at Civil Hospital Khairpur Medical College.
She, along with Principal Khairpur Medical College Dr Javed Ahmed Phulpoto, cut the ribbon to formally open the new department at the facility.
Speaking to the media on the occasion, Dr Nafisa Shah said that Karo-Kari incidents are not a tradition or cultural practice in any form, but are criminal acts often used to conceal personal enmities and tribal disputes. She said violence against women and the killing of innocent women is an act of extreme cowardice, a crime against humanity and a serious offence.
Dr Shah urged the police and administration to take immediate and strict action so that perpetrators are brought to justice. She said Islam strongly condemns oppression and the unlawful killing of women, adding that society also rejects such acts.
She stressed that daughters are not “Kari” and that the real criminals are those who commit violence against women. She called on the state to ensure the immediate arrest and prosecution of offenders to end such practices permanently.
Describing the new psychiatric and drug rehabilitation ward as a commendable initiative, she praised Dr Harish Kumar Makhija for establishing the facility through personal efforts. She also directed the health department to take strict action against negligent doctors and review their performance and salaries to ensure accountability.
She said mental health is as important as physical health, adding that the new department would provide improved diagnostic, treatment and counselling facilities for patients with psychiatric conditions. She noted that mental health issues are increasing in modern society, making such services increasingly essential.
According to hospital administration, the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences will also provide training opportunities for medical students and doctors.
Dr Nafisa Shah also described the Peoples Bus Service as an important facility for Khairpur, saying it would offer affordable and safe transport to the public while easing the burden of rising fuel prices.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Medical Superintendent Dr Rafiq Ahmed Mangi, Professor Zulfiqar Shar, Professor Dr Kirpal Das, Dr Naeem Phulpoto, Syed Faik Ali Shah, along with retired professors, doctors and other dignitaries.
