The confusion surrounding the reported disappearance of a newborn at a private hospital in Nazimabad has been clarified, with police confirming that the woman involved had fabricated her pregnancy due to social pressure related to childlessness. The woman, identified as Zubia, wife of Rashid, was admitted to the hospital for delivery, but medical staff found no baby during the procedure.
This revelation led to unrest, as the woman’s family protested and reportedly damaged parts of the hospital. Authorities stated that Zubia had registered herself at the hospital’s gynecology ward using a falsified ultrasound report. The woman had been emotionally distressed after a miscarriage about a year prior and feared criticism from her family for not having a child.
Police explained that Zubia began presenting herself as pregnant to avoid social stigma. She allegedly submitted an ultrasound report with forged signatures and a counterfeit hospital stamp. The hospital administration noted that the ultrasound dated February 16 did not confirm pregnancy, while the woman arrived on August 27 with a report dated August 8.
Due to Zubia’s unstable condition and pain, doctors decided on an immediate operation. Meanwhile, police accused the hospital staff of admitting her without conducting the necessary tests, labeling this as criminal negligence. She remained hospitalized for eight hours and received medication during that time.
All relevant evidence has been collected, and Zubia underwent a medical examination. During questioning, she admitted to fabricating the pregnancy to avoid familial taunts. SSP Central Dr. Imran Khan highlighted that the investigation also uncovered negligence on the hospital’s part.
In a related development, Sindh Healthcare Commission CEO Dr. Ahsan Qavi emphasized that while police can file FIRs, medical investigations fall under the commission’s jurisdiction. He confirmed that a clinical audit is underway and urged institutions to forward the case to the commission for a thorough inquiry. Dr. Qavi also dismissed calls to shut down the hospital, stating that such actions cannot be taken solely based on public demands.
