Former Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Siraj-ul-Haq, said today that providing basic health facilities and establishing institutions is the responsibility of the government.

Haq expressed these views while speaking to the media at the inauguration ceremony of a free dental medical camp for affected children at the Hajira Hamza Thalassemia Center in Abbottabad.

He emphasized that the government should prioritize supporting private welfare organizations. Pakistan Bait-ul-Mal serves as a financial aid source for underprivileged and needy citizens suffering from serious illnesses, but the delay in appointing its managing director due to political disagreements is causing difficulties for thousands of deserving patients. He described this situation as equivalent to playing with people’s lives.

Haq praised the philanthropists supporting welfare organizations and acknowledged their efforts. He highlighted the challenges faced by innocent children suffering from thalassemia and commended the foundation’s management for their dedication, which brings smiles to the faces of these affected children. He further urged the government to ensure the availability of thalassemia treatment facilities at the district level.

Earlier, Major General (Retired) Abid Latif, the head of Hajira Hamza Thalassemia Center, stated that the center had registered 250 children. These children are provided with free blood transfusions and medicines.

Regional Health Director Dr Amir Swati highlighted that thalassemia is a hereditary disease that continues across generations. He noted that health facilities often fall short under population pressure. He mentioned clear instructions from the Minister of Health, Secretary, and DG Health regarding the center’s relocation to the Women and Children Hospital, which will improve services through collaboration with private organizations.

During the medical camp, dental specialists examined the children and provided them with medicines. Parents of the affected patients expressed happiness over the organization of the free medical camp.