A female doctor who was critically injured in an acid attack at a hospital in Quetta is now in stable condition and receiving treatment at a private medical facility in Karachi, according to hospital sources. The victim, identified as Dr Mahnoor Nasir, was airlifted to Karachi after sustaining severe burn injuries at Sandeman Provincial Hospital in Quetta.
Medical Condition and Treatment
Hospital sources confirmed that reconstructive surgeons and eye specialists have completed their initial assessments of the doctor. She suffered burn injuries to her face, abdomen, legs, and right hand, covering 13% of her body. Although her eyes were affected by the acid, her eyesight remains intact, and she is out of danger. After arriving at the private hospital on University Road in Karachi, doctors conducted a preliminary medical examination and tests. She has been transferred to a Special Care Unit, where she will remain under special observation for 10 days, with the first two days expected to be spent in the intensive care unit (ICU). Another medical assessment is scheduled after 24 hours, and her condition has been described as satisfactory.
Legal Proceedings and Suspect Death
A case has been registered at the Civil Lines police station in Quetta under Section 336-B against suspect Humayun Shah. Police officials reported that the suspect was killed during an encounter while authorities were attempting to arrest him. Balochistan Health Minister Bakht Kakar stated that the suspect had been harassing the doctor for several months, with evidence of harassment found in messages recovered from his mobile phone.
Government Response and Support
Health Minister Kakar noted that Balochistan has two burn centres, but the victim was transferred to Karachi at her family's request. Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti has assured the doctor and her family of complete treatment and all possible support. Separately, Chief Minister Bugti spoke by phone with Abdul Razzaq Tareen, a Civil Hospital employee who suffered burn injuries while trying to save the doctor during the attack. Bugti praised his courage and assured that the Balochistan government would bear all treatment expenses and, if needed, arrange treatment at the country's best medical facilities.
Outrage and Protests
The acid attack has sparked widespread outrage across Balochistan. The Young Doctors Association announced a boycott of services, except emergency care, in protest against the incident. Medical organizations have called for stricter mechanisms to protect female doctors from harassment and violence in hospitals.
