ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Information Commission has ordered to public inquiry report concerning alleged negligence and mistreatment of doctors at Quaid-e-Azam International Hospital Rawalpindi, which purportedly led to death of young man. 

This directive comes after Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority withheld information, citing confidentiality under Right of Access to Information Act, 2017. Zahoor Ahmed, resident of Gujjar Khan, Rawalpindi filed complaint with IHRA in July 2021, accusing hospital’s doctors of negligence resulting in his son’s death. Citizen Nadeem Umer filed an information request to IHRA on February 14, 2024, seeking current status and copy of the inquiry report. Umer’s request was denied by public body, leading him to appeal to Pakistan Information Commission. Upon receiving appeal, Commission issued notice to IHRA. IHRA, represented by law officer, maintained that information was confidential and exempt from disclosure under section 7(h) of Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, which pertains to personal treatment records.

However, Commission disagreed with this exemption claim. Citing section 5 of Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, Commission highlighted that inquiry and investigative reports, once finalised, must be proactively published by public bodies. Commission asserted that inquiry into death of Zahoor Ahmed’s son should be made accessible to ensure transparency and accountability. Commission’s ruling emphasised importance of handling matters related to public health and safety with utmost care and diligence.  Next hearing is scheduled for June 16, 2024, to review compliance and implementation of Commission’s order.