Key Takeaways
- Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI) allocates Rs2 billion for treatment and welfare of 78 HIV-positive children.
- 37 doctors and paramedical staff face disciplinary action over the incident.
- Minister Saeed Ghani assures complete medical support to affected families.
The Sindh Employees’ Social Security Institution (SESSI) has approved a Rs2 billion endowment fund for the long-term treatment and welfare of 78 children infected with HIV/AIDS at Kulsoom Bai Valika Hospital in Karachi. This decision was made during a meeting of the Governing Body (GB) on Wednesday, following confirmation that 78 children were affected by the outbreak.
In response to a court petition filed by Advocate Tariq Mansoor, Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani assured parents and guardians that the government would provide complete medical treatment and support. The minister stated that an inquiry committee had been formed immediately after receiving the first report of the incident in October 2025, with all children being screened subsequently to confirm 78 cases.
During the meeting, the GB also endorsed disciplinary action against 37 doctors and paramedical staff involved at Valika Hospital. The decision includes suspensions and issuance of show-cause notices for these individuals. Minister Ghani emphasized that no one found responsible would be granted any concessions, regardless of their rank or position.
The minister highlighted the government’s commitment to ensuring justice and comprehensive support for the affected children and families. He stated that investigators were also working to determine whether the infections occurred during the relevant period or earlier, with inquiries underway against all relevant officials on duty at the time.
In a statement released after the meeting, Ghani said, 'We are carrying out a transparent investigation and no individual found responsible will be granted any concession.' He added that the Sindh government would continue to stand by the affected children and their families, ensuring they receive both justice and every possible medical and welfare support.
The incident has sparked concern among parents and legal advocates. Advocate Tariq Mansoor had petitioned the Sindh High Court on July 2, seeking an explanation from the provincial government regarding the HIV outbreak at Valika Hospital. The court gave the government two weeks to respond.
While the exact cause of the infection remains under investigation, the allocation of Rs2 billion underscores the seriousness with which the government is addressing this public health crisis. The funds will be used to provide the highest standard of medical care and welfare initiatives for the affected children and their families.
'We are carrying out a transparent investigation and no individual found responsible will be granted any concession.'
Minister Saeed Ghani, Sindh Labour Minister
