Caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab, Mohsin Naqvi, paid a visit to Mayo Hospital today to meet with patients who had suffered vision impairment due to substandard injections. Chief Minister Naqvi took the time to empathize with the affected individuals, offering words of encouragement and support. Among the patients receiving treatment were Bashir Ahmed, Shahid Saleem, Manzoor Hussain, Ayesha, Mrs. Zahida, and Afshan Bibi.
During their interactions with the Chief Minister, the patients and their families were visibly moved, their emotions pouring forth. One distraught daughter, unable to contain her tears, spoke of her mother's anguish, pleading for justice. She implored Chief Minister Naqvi to ensure the arrest of those responsible for her mother's loss of sight. In response, Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi provided solace and assurance, vowing that those accountable would face due consequences. He affirmed that FIRs have been registered and raids are being conducted to arrest the accused, promising to exert every effort within his capacity.
Reiterating the government's unwavering support, Chief Minister Naqvi informed that all resources were being mobilized for the affected patients, with ministers actively involved in overseeing their treatment. The Punjab government was shouldering the cost of their care, ensuring they received the necessary treatment free of charge. Dr. Asad Aslam and other medical professionals briefed on the condition of patients, offering insights into their treatment plans. Highlighting a glimmer of hope, they announced the successful completion of the first operation for patient Afshan.
Addressing the media, CM Punjab affirmed that strict legal action would be taken against those involved in the distribution of substandard injections. Some patients had been admitted to private hospitals while others had returned home. Chief Minister Naqvi extended an offer of comprehensive treatment services through the Punjab government, vowing to leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice.
He pledged that a thorough investigation would determine the culpable parties, stressing the need for an accurate understanding of whether the issue lay with the injection itself, its transportation, or temperature control. The injection goes from Lahore to Sadiqabad, we have to see where the problem lies. Based on the investigation report, the responsible persons involved in the incident will be determined. Can't abuse someone just for creating a news, No one will be abused and those responsible will not be spared. Chief Minister Naqvi emphasized the need for accountability, noting that matters related to medicines also fell under the purview of the federal government. He expressed concern over the conduct of the drug inspector, questioning the approval of these injections for sale, he also raised questions about the role of the Healthcare Commission. Chief Minister Naqvi concluded by underlining the importance of introspection and a commitment to improvement, emphasizing that mere transfers would not suffice.
Present at the occasion were Provincial Ministers Amir Mir, Azfar Ali Nasir, Dr. Jamal Nasir, Dr. Javed Akram, Mansoor Qadir, Chief Secretary, Secretary of Health, Information, and other relevant officers.