PCCR calls for accountability over PIMS nursery fire

News Desk

Islamabad: The Parliamentary Caucus on Child Rights (PCCR) has called for a comprehensive review of safety and emergency arrangements at hospitals following the deaths of newborns in a fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS).

The caucus demanded a transparent and impartial investigation into the incident, saying authorities must determine the cause of the fire and establish whether any negligence, safety violations or institutional shortcomings contributed to the deaths.

It said the inquiry should examine fire prevention measures, emergency preparedness, evacuation arrangements and the actions taken by officials and relevant authorities after the fire broke out.

Convenor of the PCCR Dr Nikhat Shakeel, MNA, expressed profound grief over the deaths and conveyed condolences to the bereaved families, saying the loss of newborn children in an institution meant to provide care was deeply distressing.

The caucus stressed that hospitals have a particular responsibility to protect newborns and other vulnerable children who cannot safeguard themselves during emergencies.

It urged authorities to strictly enforce hospital safety standards, regularly inspect emergency systems and strengthen response mechanisms to reduce risks to patients, particularly children.

The PCCR also called for institutional accountability, emphasizing that any official or authority found responsible for negligence or lapses should be dealt with according to the law.

The caucus reaffirmed its commitment to promoting legislative and institutional measures aimed at strengthening child protection and preventing similar tragedies in the future.