The ongoing doctors’ strike in Kohat has now stretched into its fourth consecutive day, triggered by the shocking assassination of Lady Doctor Mehwish. This tragic incident has sent shockwaves through the medical community, prompting healthcare professionals across several districts to halt routine services in protest. The strike underscores the growing concerns over the safety and security of medical staff working in volatile environments.
Healthcare facilities in multiple districts, including Kohat, Bannu, Dera Ismail Khan, Lakki Marwat, Hangu, and Mardan, have witnessed a near-complete shutdown of outpatient departments (OPDs). Only emergency medical services continue to operate, as doctors, nurses, paramedics, and medical students unite in their demand for immediate and robust security measures. This collective action reflects the deep frustration and fear among medical personnel, who feel increasingly vulnerable while performing their duties.
Representing the Young Doctors Association, Dr. Asfandyar emphasized that the strike will persist until the government enforces tangible security protocols to protect healthcare workers. He highlighted that the situation has escalated beyond routine safety concerns, now threatening the very lives of doctors. The call for the implementation of the Hospital Security Act has become a central demand, as medical professionals accuse the provincial authorities of negligence in safeguarding their workplaces.
The brutal killing of Dr. Mehwish occurred three days ago when she was returning home from her hospital duties in Kohat. The post-mortem examination revealed that she suffered eight gunshot wounds, a grim testament to the violent nature of the attack. This heinous crime has intensified the strike and amplified calls for justice and better protection for frontline medical workers.
Law enforcement agencies have responded by collecting crucial evidence from the crime scene and securing CCTV footage that has helped identify potential suspects. Police have launched raids in an effort to apprehend those responsible for the murder. Authorities have assured the public and the medical fraternity that they are committed to swiftly bringing the perpetrators to justice, even as tensions remain high and the demand for improved security grows louder.
Meanwhile, the disruption of healthcare services continues to pose significant challenges for patients in the affected districts, many of whom are unable to access routine medical care. The strike highlights the urgent need for systemic reforms to ensure the safety of medical professionals, who play a vital role in the community. As the situation develops, the government faces mounting pressure to address these security lapses and restore confidence among healthcare workers and the public alike.
