Pakistani children expelled by India get life-saving care at home
Two young patients expelled from Delhi hospital amid visa cancellations receive critical care at top military facility in Pakistan
ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (MNTV) — Two Pakistani children with life-threatening heart conditions have undergone successful surgeries in Rawalpindi, a military garrison city near the capital Islamabad, weeks after being denied treatment in India due to escalating diplomatic tensions.
Nine-year-old Abdullah and seven-year-old Minsa were treated at the Armed Forces Institute of Cardiology (AFIC) after Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, intervened to facilitate their care.
The children had traveled to New Delhi for surgery but were forced to return home after Indian authorities revoked their medical visas amid a spike in tensions between the two countries.
The cancellation came in the aftermath of a deadly attack in Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, including tourists.
Following the incident, India suspended medical visas for Pakistani nationals and ordered several patients to leave the country — including Abdullah and Minsa, who had already been admitted to a hospital in Delhi.
Their father, Shahid Ahmed, said the family was devastated but grateful for the rapid assistance after their return.
“Alhamdulillah, my children are recovering well. I couldn’t have handled this trauma alone. The doctors have been outstanding,” he said.
Pakistani media reported that the army chief directed authorities to ensure the children received immediate care at AFIC.
Major General (Retired) Dr. Naseer Ahmed Soomro, the hospital’s commandant, praised the medical team’s coordination and professionalism, calling the outcome a result of timely and meticulous planning.
Pakistan’s federal health minister, Syed Mustafa Kamal, also instructed health authorities to provide full medical and logistical support to the family.
The children underwent surgery shortly after arriving back in Pakistan.
The case has drawn renewed attention to the humanitarian consequences of visa restrictions during periods of diplomatic tension.
While Abdullah and Minsa are now in recovery, the circumstances of their case reflect the broader toll geopolitical rifts can take on vulnerable civilians, particularly children caught between borders.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
