Karachi (HRNW): A major development has emerged in the investigation into the maternity-related incident reported in Karachi’s Nazimabad area, with police saying the woman has disclosed important details during questioning.
According to police officials, alleged negligence by a private hospital and its staff has also emerged during the preliminary investigation, and legal action against those responsible is being considered.
Police said the woman had become pregnant about a year ago but allegedly lost the pregnancy. She was reportedly under social and family pressure over being childless and subsequently began presenting herself as pregnant.
According to officials, the woman registered herself at the gynecology department of a private hospital in Nazimabad and allegedly added an ultrasound report to her medical file.
Police said that after claiming to have completed 38 weeks of pregnancy, the woman arrived at the hospital two days before the incident. She was allegedly admitted without the necessary tests being completed. Police said she was given medication around eight hours later and was subsequently administered anesthesia before being taken to the operating theatre.
According to police, during the operation, the attending doctor discovered that there was no baby in the woman’s abdomen, following which the matter came to light.
Police said available evidence has been collected and the woman has also undergone a medical examination. Authorities said they are also considering her circumstances from the perspective of social and psychological victimization.
Police officials said the woman told investigators that she had falsely claimed to be pregnant to avoid alleged taunts and social pressure over being childless.
Investigations into the incident are continuing on the instructions of SSP District Central Dr. Muhammad Imran Khan. Police said further legal action will be taken against those found responsible after the final report of the medical commission is received.
The investigation includes medical reports, available evidence, CCTV footage and other relevant records.
Human Rights Perspective
The incident raises important concerns regarding social pressure on women, stigma surrounding childlessness and possible negligence in healthcare services. Every patient has the right to safe and appropriate medical care, while any proven negligence by medical personnel must be investigated transparently and dealt with according to law. The woman’s dignity, privacy and legal rights should also be fully protected throughout the investigation.
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Disclaimer
This report is based on preliminary information provided by police and the ongoing investigation. Allegations of negligence against the private hospital or its staff remain subject to further investigation and the final medical commission report. Legal responsibility will be determined through the relevant legal process.
