The posting of a doctor with a suspended medical license as the Medical Superintendent (MS) of Liaquat University Hospital (LUH) is facing legal scrutiny. A division bench of the Sindh High Court has issued notices to relevant authorities over the appointment of Syed Irshad Hussain Kazmi.
Challenging the Appointment of the Suspended Doctor as LUH MS
The case was brought before the court via a writ of quo warranto, challenging Kazmi’s right to hold public office. The Pakistan Medical & Dental Council (PMDC) suspended his license for five years in November 2022. This followed findings of medical misconduct and professional negligence related to a fabricated postmortem report.
The petitioner’s counsel argued that Kazmi was posted as LUH MS on November 13, despite his license suspension. The PMDC also imposed a fine of Rs500,000 on him. Although an appeal was filed, no stay was granted, meaning the suspension remains legally operative.
Legal Implications of the Suspended Doctor’s Posting
According to sources at SindhNews.com, the petitioner contends that a valid and active PMDC registration is a prerequisite for holding medical and administrative positions. Sections 38 and 42 of the PMDC Act, 2023, stipulate this requirement. Kazmi’s suspension, under Section 44, means his name is effectively removed from the register for the suspension period.
The petition argues that the respondent chief secretary and health secretary acted illegally by appointing an individual debarred from practicing medicine. This appointment, it is alleged, undermines public health administration and regulatory oversight. The court has scheduled the next hearing for December 19.
The legal challenge seeks to declare Kazmi’s appointment illegal and have him removed from his post, ensuring compliance with the PMDC’s disciplinary order. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for hospital administration and regulatory compliance.