By Junaid Toru
PESHAWAR: The provincial leadership of the Young Doctors Association (YDA) has criticized the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government following the killing of Dr. Mehwish in Kohat, alleging that gaps in healthcare infrastructure and security contributed to the incident.
Speaking at a press conference at the Peshawar Press Club, YDA Provincial President Dr. Asfandyar Bettani, flanked by cabinet members including Dr. Asad Yar and other doctors, said the tragedy reflects systemic weaknesses in public hospitals across the province.
Dr. Bettani stated that hospitals in several districts, including Kohat, lack essential medical facilities and adequate infrastructure, which, he claimed, often leads to delays in treatment and rising tensions between patients’ attendants and medical staff. He argued that if basic facilities had been available, the situation surrounding Dr. Mehwish’s case might have been avoided.
Referring to the incident, he said Dr. Mehwish had reportedly informed the patient’s attendants about limitations due to shortages of resources, and treatment was provided after a delay. He alleged that later, while she was returning home, she was shot by individuals linked to the earlier dispute.
The YDA leadership said they had repeatedly raised concerns about doctors’ security during previous protests and press briefings. They accused the government of failing to take practical steps to safeguard healthcare professionals.
Dr. Bettani further noted that a Doctors’ Protection Act has been passed by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly but claimed that its provisions have yet to be effectively implemented. He called for the immediate arrest of those responsible for the killing and demanded strict punishment under the law.
The association warned that if concrete measures were not taken, it would consider further protests, including sit-ins outside key government offices.
The YDA reiterated its demand for improved healthcare facilities in government hospitals and comprehensive measures to ensure the safety and professional dignity of doctors across the province.
