SARGODHA: A woman has died at Maryam Nawaz Hospital in Sargodha, allegedly due to medical negligence by doctors, sparking public outrage and protests by her family members, officials and rescue sources confirmed on Tuesday.
According to Rescue 1122 sources, the deceased woman had given birth to a baby girl a few days ago and was admitted to the hospital for post-delivery care. Her condition reportedly deteriorated during treatment, and despite being under medical supervision, she passed away, raising serious questions about the standard of care provided at the facility.
Family members of the deceased alleged that the woman did not receive timely and proper medical attention from the hospital staff. They claimed that repeated complaints about her worsening condition were ignored and that delays in treatment ultimately led to her death. The incident has intensified concerns over patient safety and accountability in public-sector hospitals.
Following the woman’s death, her relatives staged a protest by placing the body on Kot Momin Road, blocking traffic and chanting slogans against the hospital administration. The protesters demanded immediate action against the doctors and staff they hold responsible, as well as justice for the deceased woman and her family.
The protest caused significant disruption to traffic in the area, with commuters facing long delays. Police and local administration officials arrived at the scene to negotiate with the protesters and restore order. After assurances of an official inquiry and action against those found responsible, the family agreed to end the protest.
Sources in the Health Department said that the seriousness of the incident prompted swift administrative action. As an initial step, the acting Medical Superintendent (MS) of the hospital and the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Health have been suspended. Officials said the suspensions were ordered to ensure a transparent and unbiased investigation into the incident.
Health Department authorities confirmed that a formal inquiry has been launched to determine the exact causes of the woman’s death. An investigation committee has been tasked with examining medical records, treatment procedures, and the conduct of the doctors and paramedical staff involved in the case.
“The death of the woman is being thoroughly investigated,” a Health Department official said. “If negligence is proven at any level, strict disciplinary and legal action will be taken against those responsible, in accordance with the law.”
Hospital officials, meanwhile, stated that they are cooperating fully with the inquiry team. They said all relevant records have been secured and made available to investigators to help establish the facts surrounding the case.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted longstanding concerns about healthcare services in public hospitals, including staff shortages, overcrowding, and alleged lapses in patient care. In recent years, several similar incidents have been reported across Punjab, leading to public criticism and demands for systemic reforms in the health sector.
Medical experts say that postnatal care is a critical period for new mothers, and any delay or negligence in treatment can have fatal consequences. They stress the need for strict adherence to medical protocols, timely intervention, and continuous monitoring of patients after childbirth.
Civil society activists and local residents have also expressed concern over the incident, calling for improved accountability mechanisms in hospitals. They argue that suspensions alone are not enough and that comprehensive reforms are needed to ensure patient safety and restore public trust in government healthcare facilities.
The provincial government has repeatedly stated its commitment to improving healthcare standards and taking action against negligence. Officials say that the outcome of the inquiry into this case will be made public and that no one will be protected if found guilty of misconduct or negligence.
As investigations continue, the bereaved family is demanding justice and assurances that such incidents will not be repeated. The case has reignited debate over the quality of maternal healthcare services and the responsibility of hospital administrations to ensure safe and effective treatment for patients.
Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and allow the investigation process to conclude, assuring that accountability will be ensured. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, professionalism, and compassion in the healthcare system, particularly in cases involving vulnerable patients such as new mothers.
