The National Assembly Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination (NHSR&C) on Thursday termed the rising HIV cases in the country, particularly in Taunsa tehsil, alarming and directed that a detailed briefing be presented at the next meeting. Highlighting the situation in Taunsa, where 331 cases had been reported, the committee sought clarification on the matter.
In 2025, a Tehsil Headquarter Hospital in Taunsa was linked to an HIV outbreak among children. Despite Punjab authorities pledging a crackdown, on Monday, BBC investigations revealed that unsafe practices continued to put children at risk. The committee today met under the chairmanship of MNA Dr Mahesh Kumar Malani to deliberate on key issues concerning medical education, public health challenges and regulatory reforms.
Expressing serious concern over reported deaths, including suicide cases, in medical colleges, particularly in Punjab and Mirpur Khas, the committee directed the ministry to submit a detailed report on such incidents over the past years and to ensure that thorough inquiries were conducted and corrective measures implemented.