Karachi, Pakistan — A heartbreaking incident in Karachi has sparked widespread outrage after a two-and-a-half-year-old Christian child reportedly died when Jinnah Medical Saeed Trust Hospital allegedly refused to provide emergency treatment until a payment of 3,000 Pakistani rupees was made.
According to reports, LEAD Ministries came to know about the tragedy involving the child, identified as Darla, who was rushed to the hospital by her mother, Huma Michael, after the child began suffering severe health complications.
Medical staff reportedly recommended immediate admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) and prescribed necessary medicines. However, hospital administrators allegedly insisted on receiving the full payment before commencing treatment. Huma Michael said she only had 800 rupees at the time and begged the doctors to start treatment while her husband traveled to the hospital with the remaining amount.
“I kept folding my hands in front of the doctors and begged them not to stop my daughter’s treatment. I told them my husband was bringing the money,” she said. By the time the father arrived with the required payment, the child had reportedly already passed away.
Pastor Imran Amanat, Director of LEAD Ministries, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy: “This heartbreaking incident raises serious questions about humanity and responsibility within healthcare institutions. No child should lose their life because a family could not immediately arrange a small payment. Hospitals, especially those operating as a trust, should prioritize saving lives over financial requirements. Emergency treatment should never be delayed due to payment issues.”
Sardar Mushtaq Gill, Founder of LEAD Ministries, called on the Christian community and human rights defenders to pray for the grieving family and seek justice:
“We request prayers for the victim’s family and restoration for those affected by this tragedy. We also call upon authorities to ensure justice and accountability.”
He further clarified the mission of LEAD Ministries:
“LEAD Ministries focuses primarily on documenting persecution and raising awareness of violence against Christians and human rights rather than providing financial assistance to victims. However, we are actively seeking partnerships with individuals, churches, and human rights and Christian organisations working for persecuted Christians. Through cooperation and solidarity, we can strengthen our efforts to ensure justice and protection for persecuted communities.”
LEAD Ministries team also expressed a vision to launch projects aimed at supporting vulnerable Christian families in Pakistan. These initiatives would provide community support, empower marginalized Christians, and strengthen local churches, contributing to the broader growth and development of the Christian community while promoting dignity, resilience, and faith.
The incident has raised serious concerns about emergency medical practices, hospital ethics, and access to healthcare for marginalized communities in Pakistan. Advocates say denying emergency care due to an upfront payment requirement could violate both medical ethics and legal obligations. Authorities have not yet publicly responded, and it remains unclear whether an official inquiry has been launched.
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