Doctors across Pakistan are protesting on Monday over what they describe as unfair FIRs, harassment and the Federal Board of Revenue’s Point of Sale policy. The Pakistan Medical Association (PMA) has suspended outpatient department (OPD) services at public and private hospitals, along with private clinics nationwide, for two days.
An official statement from PMA Karachi said the move followed directives from the association’s central leadership and a unanimous resolution adopted by doctors nationwide on October 29. OPD services and private clinics are closed today in Karachi and elsewhere in the country, but emergency departments at all hospitals will keep operating so urgent patients still receive care.
Four concerns behind the nationwide shutdown
The PMA said the protest targets four issues affecting the medical community, including:
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- FIRs registered against doctors that the association called allegedly unjustified.
- Legal proceedings involving medical professionals.
- Alleged humiliation and harassment of doctors.
- The FBR’s compulsory implementation of the Point of Sale system.
Leaders stress dignity and call for institutional support
In a joint statement, PMA Karachi President Dr Muhammad Ismail Memon and General Secretary Dr Shahid Ibrahim MAMSA said protecting doctors’ dignity, professional independence and legitimate rights was essential. The association has urged doctors, healthcare institutions and professional bodies to back the collective decision and ensure the shutdown is carried out effectively.
PMA Karachi said routine outpatient care will stay suspended, while emergency facilities continue to avoid inconvenience for patients needing immediate treatment. The association said the protest aims to draw attention to the medical community’s concerns and secure appropriate action from relevant authorities.
