Peshawar (HRNW) – An Accountability Court in Peshawar has rejected the bail application of Dr. Muhammad Islam, an accused in the alleged public medicines scandal, while scheduling the bail hearing of former Director General (DG) Health Dr. Shaukat for 27 July.
The case was heard by Accountability Judge Muhammad Zafar. During the proceedings, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) prosecutor argued that Dr. Muhammad Islam, a cardiac technician, was allegedly involved in the medicines procurement scandal through collaboration with a private pharmaceutical company.
According to the prosecution, the accused, in alleged collusion with other suspects, facilitated the issuance of medicine supply orders worth PKR 220.7 million in favor of the private company.
The NAB prosecutor further informed the court that PKR 157 million of the total amount was allegedly transferred to the accused’s personal bank account. An additional PKR 40 million was reportedly transferred from the District Health Office (DHO) Lower Dir for the procurement of medicines for DHQ Hospital Timergara.
The prosecution alleged that the medicines were never supplied to the hospital and that the funds were subsequently withdrawn. Following arguments from both sides, the court dismissed Dr. Muhammad Islam’s bail application.
Meanwhile, former DG Health Dr. Shaukat, who is also under arrest in the same case, has filed a separate bail application. In his petition, he argues that he was arrested solely on the basis of allegations and that NAB has not yet presented sufficient evidence to justify his continued detention. The court has fixed 27 July for the hearing of his bail request.
Human Rights Perspective
Human Rights News Worldwide (HRNW) emphasizes that transparent management of public health resources and accountability in the healthcare sector are essential for protecting the public’s right to health and ensuring access to quality medical services.
At the same time, every accused person has the right to due process, a fair trial, legal representation, and the presumption of innocence until proven guilty by a competent court. Anti-corruption proceedings should be conducted impartially, transparently, and strictly in accordance with the law.
🤝 Support HRNW – The World’s No. 1 Human Rights News Agency
👉 https://www.hrnww.com/?page_id=1083
⚠️ Important Note (Disclaimer)
This report is based on court proceedings and the prosecution’s submissions. The case remains pending before the court, and all allegations are subject to judicial determination. HRNW is committed to promoting human rights, transparency, the rule of law, accountability, and responsible journalism. This report is not affiliated with, nor previously published on, HRNW (hrnww.com).
