KARACHI — Dr. Mahnoor, a female doctor who survived a horrific acid attack in Quetta, is currently undergoing treatment at the Burn Centre of the Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH) in Karachi. According to the medical team, her eyesight remains safe, offering a glimmer of hope amid the tragedy.
Doctors stated that while the victim has complained of blurred vision, it is likely due to the severe swelling on her face. The exact condition of her eyesight will become clearer once the inflammation subsides.
Medical Updates and Extended Treatment
Speaking to the media, Dr. Mahnoor’s uncle revealed that the acid caused severe burn injuries not only to her face but also to her right hand and foot.
“Doctors have informed us that we will have to stay in the hospital for about a month to a month-and-a-half,” he said. “She will require multiple reconstructive surgeries, and the recovery process is going to take time.”
The Brave Paramedic to Receive Civil Award
Abdul Razzak Khilji, the brave paramedic who was the first to rush to the doctor’s aid at Civil Hospital Quetta, shared his ordeal. Khilji was also injured by the chemical’s effects during the rescue.
The Rescue: “The lady doctor was in such extreme agony that she pulled me toward her, which caused the acid to burn me as well,” Khilji recalled. “I immediately took off my apron and covered her. Initially, I didn’t even realize it was an acid attack.” Government Recognition: In recognition of his timely intervention and selflessness, the Chief Minister of Balochistan has announced a Civil Award for Abdul Razzak Khilji.
Attacker Killed; Motive Unknown
The perpetrator was previously identified as Humayun Shah, a lift operator at the Quetta hospital. He was subsequently killed in a retaliatory action by the police. However, official authorities and police have yet to formally disclose the underlying motive behind the brutal attack.
Young Doctors Association (YDA) Demands Justice
The incident has sparked outrage across the medical community. Leaders of the Young Doctors Association (YDA), including Dr. Tahir Musakhail and Dr. Sabir Mandokhail, strongly condemned the attack and announced an indefinite shutdown of Outpatient Departments (OPDs) alongside setting up protest camps.
The YDA has demanded that the government must entrust the security of all government hospitals to professionally trained personnel. They have also called for a judicial committee to conduct an impartial, fair, and transparent investigation into the incident, while ensuring that Dr. Mahnoor is provided the best medical facilities entirely at the government’s expense.