The Balochistan government has decided to send Dr. Mahnoor Nasir, a Pakistani doctor who survived an acid attack in Quetta, abroad for specialized treatment of her burn injuries, a provincial spokesperson confirmed on Saturday.
Attack and Injuries
Dr. Nasir was attacked on June 6, 2026, in the orthopedic ward of Civil Hospital in Quetta, the largest government-run hospital in Balochistan province. The assailant, Hamayoun Shah, a lift operator at the hospital, entered her room and threw acid on her before fleeing. She sustained 35 percent burn injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Karachi. According to Shahid Rind, spokesperson for the Balochistan government, she may require a skin transplant abroad.
Government Response
“We will ensure that she receives every medical facility and form of care deemed necessary, in accordance with the wishes of her family,” Rind told Arab News. “The process has already been initiated.” The provincial government has committed to covering all medical expenses and facilitating her travel abroad.
Attacker Killed
Shortly after the attack, the suspect was killed by Balochistan police. Imran Shoukat, a deputy inspector general of police, stated that Shah was attempting to flee the city but was killed during an exchange of fire with law enforcement.
Outrage and Boycott
The acid attack sparked widespread outrage among doctors and hospital staff. The Young Doctors Association initiated a boycott of services at government-run hospitals, except for emergency care, which lasted several days. The incident has highlighted the risks of violence and social disparities faced by women in Pakistan.
Broader Context
According to medical associations, around 70,000 women — nearly one-fifth of Pakistan’s 370,000 registered doctors — are listed in official registries but are not currently practicing, partly due to fears of harassment and attack. This has exacerbated a fast-growing doctor shortage in the country. Data on acid attacks remains scarce; however, the Acid Survivors Foundation reported approximately 1,180 violent incidents involving acid and other burn-causing substances, such as petrol and boiling water, between 2011 and 2018.
