Health Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain stressed that the government's show-cause notice to Ad-din Medical College Hospital adhered to the relevant laws and regulations, while the hospital contested that it did not.

The minister also said today that necessary action would be taken in accordance with the law following Ad-din's response. The stipulated deadline to explain its case expires tomorrow (on Sunday).

Six newborns died in the hospital on May 27, which the health directorate has alleged to be due to the hospital's negligence.

“We are thoroughly examining the legal provisions, the regulations governing hospital establishment and all relevant laws. Based on our observations, we are moving forward firmly and in compliance with the law,” said Sakhawat Husain.

The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) on Thursday submitted its probe report, accusing the hospital authorities of negligence and other lapses that allegedly led to the deaths of the six newborns.

On the same day, the DGHS issued a show-cause notice to the hospital, seeking an explanation as to why its licence should not be cancelled over the deaths. The hospital has been asked to submit its response by 5:00pm tomorrow.

Shishir Manir, a lawyer for the victims' families who initiated mediation with the hospital, however, said at a press conference today that the show-cause notice was not in line with the relevant law. He said the hospital would deal with the matter through legal means.

He said the hospital would seek an opportunity for a hearing with the DGHS.

Asked about the hospital's claim, the health minister said the show-cause notice had been issued adhering to the law. “If we receive the response tomorrow afternoon, we will proceed accordingly. If they fail to reply, we will see what the law provides and act accordingly,” he added.

Responding to a question about some victim family members attending a press conference alongside the hospital representatives, where they demanded that the hospital not be shut down, he said this would not weaken the case against the hospital. “An offence has occurred, and six babies have died. A case has been filed, and we are the authority responsible for issuing hospital licences. The hospital has committed wrongdoing."

The minister said the hospital had been operating for the past three years without fire safety approval.

“Relevant authorities will take legal action from their respective positions. Agencies concerned, including the Department of Environment and the fire service, will take action in accordance with the law,” he added.

The minister called the press briefing to unveil the outcome of their meeting with the prime minister regarding an initiative to manufacture locally designed ambulances.