In a deeply disturbing episode that has sparked a scandal across Pakistan, Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad faces serious allegations of demanding Rs700,000 to store a deceased body for seven days, a shocking Rs100,000 per day, without providing any substantial treatment.
These claims surfaced during a heated session of the National Assembly’s Subcommittee on Health, leaving lawmakers visibly shocked and prompting a wave of anger across the country.
According to reports, the patient had already passed away at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) and was later shifted to Shifa, where, despite no significant medical intervention, the hospital allegedly issued a week-long bill.
Hospital Denies the Accusations
Amid growing public uproar and widespread media coverage, Shifa International Hospitals Limited (SIHL) firmly denied the allegations.
In an official statement, the hospital labeled the reports as false and misleading, accusing media platforms of promoting unverified claims.
SIHL emphasized that the accusations had no factual basis and reiterated its commitment to ethical healthcare practices. The hospital also called on the media to act responsibly and avoid spreading misinformation.
The incident has triggered a storm of reactions on social platforms, where journalists, civil society members, and activists expressed their anger. Many described the alleged behavior as exploiting the dead for profit.
“This isn’t healthcare, this is grave-level greed,” one user posted. “What’s next? Charging rent for corpses?”
In response to the growing criticism, the Health Subcommittee has summoned representatives from all private hospitals to appear on July 9. Lawmakers have vowed a thorough investigation and warned of strict consequences if Shifa is found guilty.
Not the First Time
This isn’t the first time Shifa International has come under fire. Two years ago, then-President Dr. Arif Alvi directed the hospital to return Rs2.9 million to the daughter of a deceased patient, following confirmation of medical negligence. He also upheld a fine of Rs900,000.
That earlier ruling came after Wafaqi Mohtasib ordered compensation, and the President rejected an appeal by the Islamabad Healthcare Regulatory Authority (IHRA) against that order, a move that had already raised eyebrows about the authority’s inconsistent actions.
With the July 9 hearing drawing closer, the spotlight is now firmly on Pakistan’s private healthcare sector, as calls grow louder for tighter oversight and real accountability.