SESSI vows to take strict measures as 37 medical staff suspended due to outbreak and 78 confirmed cases
KARACHI:
The governing body of the Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI) has approved the establishment of an endowment fund of Rs 2 billion for the treatment and welfare of HIV-affected children, pledging to take strict action against those responsible.
The decision was taken during a budget meeting chaired by Labor Minister and SESSI Chairman Saeed Ghani, attended by senior officials including Labor Secretary Sajid Jamal Abro, SESSI Commissioner Hadi Bux Kalhoro and other board members.
According to officials, the fund will be used to ensure quality medical treatment and support to affected children and their families, amid growing concerns over HIV cases reported at Valika Hospital.
The meeting also considered the findings of an inquiry committee formed on the directives of the provincial ombudsman. The governing body approved the committee’s recommendations, including suspension of 37 doctors and paramedical staff and issuance of show cause notices.
Speaking on the occasion, Ghani said the government was determined to conduct a transparent investigation and hold all those responsible to account. “None of the people involved will receive any leniency,” he said.
He revealed that a commission of inquiry was formed on October 29, 2025, a day after the matter was first brought to his attention. Initially, only a few cases were reported, but authorities later began screening all children, leading to the confirmation of 78 cases so far.
Ghani said investigations were underway to determine whether the infections occurred during the same period or before, adding that all doctors, paramedical staff and civil servants on duty during the relevant period were being examined.
He described the incident as a grave tragedy, assuring that the affected children and their families would not be abandoned.
Earlier, the governing body held a detailed discussion on the SESSI budget for 2026-27 and the revised budget for 2025-26. Following suggestions and reservations made by members, the meeting was adjourned to July 17 for further deliberations.
