A new documentary by BBC World Service has uncovered serious medical malpractice at a government hospital in Punjab, linking unsafe practices to a deadly HIV outbreak among children in Taunsa.
The investigation, titled “Stolen Lives: Who Gave Our Children HIV?”, found that at least 331 children tested positive between late 2024 and 2025, many of whom had received treatment at Tehsil Headquarters Hospital. The outbreak first emerged when private doctors noticed a rise in HIV cases among children.
Hidden footage revealed alarming practices, including reuse of syringes, injections through clothing, and involvement of untrained individuals in administering treatment. Experts warned such conditions create a high risk of infection.
Despite earlier suspensions and promises of action, authorities deny a direct link between the hospital and the outbreak. Meanwhile, families continue to suffer, with several child deaths reported and new cases still emerging, intensifying calls for accountability and reform in public healthcare.
