Court Directs Action in Gross Medical Negligence Case
Judge orders SHCC to refer matter to Pakistan Medical Commission and law enforcement authorities
KARACHI: The Additional District and Sessions Judge-XI (South) Karachi has ordered the Sindh Healthcare Commission (SHCC) to refer a case of **gross medical negligence** involving Dr. Naeem Karim Bhatti and Haleema Medical Center, Nawabshah, to the the Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) and law enforcement agencies for further action under the law.
The case concerns a grave medical error in which a minor patient admitted for hernia surgery was mistakenly subjected to circumcision without parental consent, resulting in the amputation of the glans penis and causing permanent physical and psychological harm to the child.
Findings by Sindh Healthcare Commission
The Sindh Healthcare Commission had earlier investigated the complaint and determined that both the doctor and the medical center were guilty of medical negligence. Each was initially fined PKR 100,000 under the Sindh Healthcare Commission Act, 2013.
Both parties challenged the decision, but the appellate court dismissed their appeal and increased the fine to **PKR 500,000 each** in accordance with Section 28(1) of the Act.
Referral to PMC and Law Enforcement
In addition to upholding SHCC’s findings, the court instructed that the case be sent to the **Pakistan Medical Commission** for potential disciplinary action, including suspension or cancellation of the doctor’s license. The court also directed the SHCC to coordinate with law enforcement authorities to ensure accountability through legal proceedings.
Upholding Healthcare Accountability in Pakistan
The ruling highlights the judiciary’s growing focus on strengthening healthcare accountability and enforcing professional standards within Pakistan’s medical system. It reinforces the role of regulatory bodies like the Sindh Healthcare Commission and Pakistan Medical Commission in protecting patient rights and maintaining trust in healthcare institutions.
Reference: https://www.medicalnews.pk/05-Nov-2025/court-directs-shcc-medical-negligence-case-law-enforcement
