Assault on female doctor: Suspect killed in police encounter as victim airlifted to Karachi

WEB DESK: Public healthcare services across Balochistan faced severe disruptions for the second consecutive day on Monday, as the Young Doctors Association (YDA) maintained its indefinite boycott of outpatient departments (OPDs) and elective services following a horrific acid attack on a female postgraduate trainee doctor.

The strike has left thousands of routine patients facing immense difficulties at major state-run facilities, including the Sandeman Provincial Hospital (Civil Hospital) in Quetta.

The medical community has vowed to continue their sit-in outside the Quetta Press Club until their administrative and security demands are met.

Growing Rift Over Suspect’s Death

While Quetta police, led by Station House Officer (SHO) Javad Haider, confirmed that the prime suspect behind the assault identified as Humayun Shah was killed in a swift police encounter within 30 minutes of the attack, the development has fueled friction between the government and healthcare professionals.

During a press conference, Young Doctors Action Committee head Dr. Tahir Musa Khel expressed deep skepticism over the rapid “liquidation” of the suspect, stating that the incident raises more questions than answers.

The YDA is demanding the formation of an independent judicial commission to probe whether the attack involved broader orchestration or a deeper motive targeting medical staff.

Escalating Demands and Crucial Talks

The protesting doctors are demanding a comprehensive, iron-clad security plan for all government hospitals, alongside the immediate dismissal of the Provincial Health Secretary, the Medical Superintendent, and the Security In-Charge of Civil Hospital Quetta for alleged criminal negligence.

Adviser to the Balochistan Home Department Babar Khan Yousafzai has urged the doctors to show restraint and return to their duties, arguing that the internal security of wards falls under hospital administration rather than the external police deployment.

The political deadlock is expected to reach a turning point on Tuesday, when Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti is scheduled to meet with a formal delegation of the YDA upon his return to Quetta.

Update on Victims

Meanwhile, the victim, Dr. Mahnoor, who sustained 13 percent burn injuries during her shift in the surgical ward, has been successfully airlifted to Karachi via the People’s Air Ambulance under the strict supervision of specialist paramedics.

The Balochistan government has pledged to bear the full financial and administrative responsibility for her long-term rehabilitation and plastic surgery.

Additionally, Chief Minister Bugti has announced a civil award for Abdul Razzaq, the courageous medical technician who sustained injuries while successfully intervening to save Dr. Mahnoor from further harm.