Pakistani showbiz figures react to PIMS tragedy, demand actions

ISLAMABAD: The deaths of 14 newborn babies in a fire at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in Islamabad have sparked grief and anger across Pakistan, with several showbiz personalities calling for a thorough investigation and accountability.

The fire broke out Wednesday morning in the nursery on the third floor of the hospital’s Mother and Child Health Ward, where newborn babies were receiving treatment. Authorities said 14 infants died in the incident while one baby was rescued.

Zunaira Inam, wife of actor Osman Mukhtar, expressed deep sorrow over the deaths and questioned whether those allegedly responsible for the tragedy would ever be held accountable.

She also raised concerns that public attention could fade within days, allowing the incident to be forgotten until another tragedy occurs.

Veteran actor Muhammad Ahmed expressed grief over the incident and called for a complete investigation.

He said those responsible for the tragedy should be identified and held accountable.

Television host Madiha Naqvi expressed solidarity with the affected mothers and families and prayed for them to have the strength to endure the devastating loss.

The reactions from showbiz personalities also included criticism of the country’s system, with concerns that tragedies often lead to public condemnation and expressions of grief but fail to result in lasting reforms or accountability.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered an immediate investigation into the PIMS fire and directed authorities to determine those responsible.