Sialkot: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has expressed serious concern over alleged corruption in Pakistan’s healthcare sector, saying that there is more “looting” in the health sector than anywhere else. Speaking at an event in Sialkot, he described the recent developments at PIMS as a warning sign that requires immediate attention.
Khawaja Asif said modern medical facilities have been provided at a social security hospital for factory workers. He pointed out that millions of workers are connected with Sialkot’s industrial sector, making quality healthcare facilities particularly important for the workforce. According to him, workers deserved access to high-quality medical treatment and better healthcare services.
Referring to the situation at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), the defence minister alleged that what happened there was the result of corruption. He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had taken notice of the incident and stressed that the developments at PIMS should be viewed as a serious warning for the healthcare system.
The minister further alleged that several people at PIMS were working together, while the health regulatory authorities were also involved. He criticised the system by comparing the situation to appointing alleged criminals as police officers, saying that financial gain appeared to have taken priority over public service.
Khawaja Asif also raised concerns about the regulatory system for hospitals in the region. He claimed that several major hospitals in Rawalpindi are operating without proper registration. The minister’s remarks highlighted the need for stronger oversight, accountability and effective regulation of healthcare facilities.
Meanwhile, the defence minister announced that additional medical facilities are expected to become available in Sialkot. He said hospitals in the city would soon offer cancer treatment services as well as a dedicated burn unit, potentially giving patients access to specialised care closer to home.
