KARACHI: The shortage of life-saving medicines in the market has raised concerns, prompting Caretaker Sindh Chief Minister Justice (R) Maqbool Baqar to order strict action against medicine hoarders. In a statement issued on Thursday, the chief minister discussed the issue with Health Minister Dr Saad Niaz, emphasizing the need to address the shortage and crack down on the circulation of substandard medicines.
The health department has been directed to launch a campaign against medicine dealers involved in hoarding, ensuring that the necessary medicines are readily available. Additionally, the department will take strong action against manufacturers, dealers, and stores engaged in producing and selling substandard medicines. Justice Baqar urged authorities to deal firmly with those who put innocent lives at risk.
During the meeting, the chief minister also discussed the matter of Dengue and malaria. It was agreed to further enhance the efforts to combat both diseases, and local governments were directed to conduct anti-mosquito spray operations in their respective areas.
Furthermore, Justice Baqar took notice of a jirga held in Ubauro, District Ghotki, to resolve a longstanding dispute related to a love marriage, which resulted in a minor girl being given as a penalty for marriage to the opposing party. In response to the caretaker chief minister’s directives, the Ghotki police arrested two accused individuals, Naser and Madad Bhutto, and are making efforts to apprehend others involved.
Expressing deep sorrow over a road accident at Jhirk-Mulakatiar Bridge that claimed seven lives, the chief minister instructed the district administration to assist the victims’ families and provide proper treatment to the injured. He also expressed dissatisfaction with the incident of firing on a Punjab-bound passenger bus, causing bullet injuries to four passengers. The chief minister directed the DIG Hyderabad to maintain law and order and ensure the protection of life and property in the area.
In addition, the chief minister took note of the killing of a police constable in an encounter at Pak Colony and instructed the IG police to provide a detailed report on the matter. He further urged the IG Police to arrest the culprits and bring them to justice.