The federal government has accepted the resignation of Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) Chairman Dr Muhammad Riaz Shahbaz Janjua.
The Ministry of National Health Services issued a formal notification confirming the development, stating that the federal cabinet had approved Dr Janjua’s resignation as a member of the IHRA board.
Following acceptance of his resignation, Dr Janjua relinquished charge as IHRA chairman with immediate effect. The decision was made under the Islamabad Healthcare Regulation Act, 2018.
The resignation comes days after a tragic incident at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), where 14 newborns died after a fire broke out in a nursery on August 26. One of the 15 babies present in the ward was rescued.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif subsequently ordered action against officials found responsible for negligence. An interim inquiry report highlighted serious deficiencies in fire safety, evacuation procedures and emergency response arrangements.
Eight officials have been suspended, while disciplinary action and possible criminal proceedings have also been ordered.
The PIMS tragedy has raised serious questions about safety standards at public healthcare facilities and intensified calls for stronger emergency response systems and strict compliance with safety regulations at hospitals.
Dr Janjua had been serving as IHRA chairman since October 2024. According to the authority’s official profile, he was responsible for providing strategic direction for healthcare regulation and quality assurance.
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