A seminar at the Institute of Public Health (IPH) Lahore on Saturday called for a zero-tolerance policy against rising incidents of violence, threats and acid attacks targeting doctors and healthcare workers across the country.
The seminar brought together government officials, medical experts and legal advisers, who collectively emphasized the urgent need to ensure the safety and dignity of doctors, nurses and hospital staff. Speakers strongly condemned recent incidents of violence, including acid attacks on Dr. Mahnoor Nasir and other female doctors in Quetta, terming them deeply alarming and a threat to the healthcare system.
Parliamentary Secretary for Health Rushda Lodhi and IPH Dean Prof Dr Saira Afzal made it clear that any form of violence or abuse against medical personnel would not be tolerated under any circumstances. They stressed that safe working conditions in hospitals are essential for effective patient care and a functioning health system.
Rushda Lodhi highlighted legislative measures under the Punjab Acid Control Act 2025, stating that the sale, purchase and use of acid in Punjab have now been brought under strict legal regulation. She said a valid government licence would be mandatory for trading or purchasing acid, while violations would carry strict imprisonment and heavy fines.
She added that the law aims to prevent misuse of acid and curb targeted attacks, particularly against women and healthcare professionals. Lodhi further stressed the importance of coordinated efforts between the district administration, police and health departments to maintain a safe and peaceful environment in hospitals.
The seminar also decided to further strengthen hospital security systems, ensure immediate legal action against anyone threatening or attacking staff, and establish rapid communication mechanisms to report incidents to relevant authorities without delay. Participants also emphasized the need for psychological and social support services for affected medical personnel.
Experts from the Pakistan Burn Society provided detailed guidance on emergency treatment for burn and acid attack victims. They advised that affected areas should be washed immediately with running tap water for at least 20 minutes, while strongly warning against the use of home remedies such as toothpaste, milk, lemon, oil, ghee, butter or ice. They stressed that victims must be shifted immediately to the nearest burn unit or qualified medical facility after initial first aid.
The seminar was attended by senior medical professionals and experts including Pakistan Burn Society President Prof Yawar, Dr Younis, Dr Sania Ahmed, Medical Women Association President Dr Wajih Rizwan, Prof Malak Bukhari, Dr Tariq Mian, Legal Advisor Kashif Bandisha, Dr Ambrain Zahra, Dr Arsalan and Dr Ahmed Abdul Moneim, along with other participants and media representatives.
Speakers concluded that ensuring a safe hospital environment is essential not only for patient care but also as a hallmark of a civilized and responsible society. They also called for the establishment of dedicated rehabilitation centers for acid attack survivors to support their physical and psychological recovery.