Acid attack on female doctor in Quetta sparks protests, suspect killed in police action

QUETTA: An alleged acid attack on a female doctor at Civil Hospital Quetta has triggered widespread outrage within the medical community, leading to protests by young doctors, a breakdown in official briefings, and a series of emergency government actions, including the victim’s transfer to Karachi for advanced treatment.

The incident took place in the surgical ward of the hospital, where an unidentified assailant allegedly threw acid on postgraduate trainee doctor Maah Noor, injuring her severely before fleeing the scene. Police said another individual was also injured in the attack, while an investigation has been launched to determine the motive behind the assault.

Doctors said the victim suffered serious burns covering around 35 percent of her body and was initially shifted to a private hospital due to what they described as inadequate facilities at Civil Hospital. Later, on the direction of Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti, she was transferred to Karachi via a People’s Air Ambulance for specialised treatment under the supervision of medical experts.

A government spokesperson said the victim’s condition is being closely monitored and that the provincial administration is providing “the best possible medical care and full support” to her family. The Chief Minister also directed officials to remain in constant contact with the affected family and ensure all necessary assistance.

Protests disrupt official briefing as doctors demand judicial inquiry

Tensions escalated at Civil Hospital when members of the Young Doctors Association (YDA) staged a strong protest during a scheduled press briefing by senior officials, including the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Quetta, the health secretary, and a government spokesperson.

Doctors blocked officials, chanted slogans, and forced the briefing to be cancelled after failed negotiations. The officials were later escorted out of the hospital premises.

YDA President Dr. Hii Baloch alleged that the attacker was a lift operator and a private employee, claiming the incident amounted to a “planned attempt to kill the doctor.” He said the hospital environment had become unsafe for medical staff, adding that “there is no security inside the hospital premises.”

The association demanded a judicial commission to investigate the incident, along with the immediate removal of senior health officials, including the health secretary, medical superintendent, and security in-charge. The doctors also announced a boycott of all medical services except emergency care, warning of a complete shutdown if arrests were not made within 12 hours.

Suspected attacker killed, police say probe ongoing

Meanwhile, police confirmed that the alleged attacker was killed during an exchange of fire with law enforcement personnel following the incident. Officials said the suspect had been wanted in connection with the acid attack case.

Quetta police stated that investigations are underway from multiple angles, with CCTV footage being examined to establish the full sequence of events and identify any additional suspects involved.

Separately, Chief Minister Bugti said there would be “no compromise on the law,” adding that individuals involved in violence against women, particularly healthcare workers, would be brought to justice. He reiterated that the provincial government is fully committed to ensuring the safety and protection of doctors and medical staff.

Authorities also said emergency measures are being taken to strengthen hospital security across Balochistan in response to the incident, which has reignited concerns over safety in public healthcare facilities.