Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb clarified that the Jinnah Institute of Cardiology (JIC) in Lahore will retain its name, quashing social media speculation about a rename to honour Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz.
Speculation arose after Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s Punjab Assembly speech on June 28, where she mentioned the “Maryam Nawaz Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases” as an extension of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC). Health Minister Khwaja Salman Rafique’s claim that the JIC’s Board of Governors proposed the name fueled confusion. Aurangzeb, posting on X, stated, “The name ‘Jinnah Institute of Cardiology Lahore’ remains unchanged, and no changes are under consideration,” confirming funding in the 2025-26 Annual Development Programme under JIC’s original name.
"جناح انسٹی ٹیوٹ آف کارڈیالوجی لاہور" کا نام "جناح انسٹی ٹیوٹ آف کارڈیالوجی لاہور" ہی ہے اور کسی قسم کی تبدیلی زیر غور نہیں۔ پنجاب حکومت کے مالی سال 2025-26 کے سالانہ ترقیاتی پروگرام میں فنڈنگ ” جناح انسٹی ٹیوٹ آف کارڈیالوجی“ کے نام سے ہی رکھی گئی ہے۔ امراض قلب اور دیگر بیماریوں… pic.twitter.com/xgqvrZhokG
— Marriyum Aurangzeb (@Marriyum_A) July 1, 2025Aurangzeb clarified that the Maryam Nawaz Institute of Cardiovascular Diseases is a new facility within a planned Nawaz Sharif Medical District, comprising 14 hospitals for advanced heart and other treatments. The district’s master planning is nearing completion, separate from the JIC. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare access in Punjab, addressing rising cardiovascular disease rates, which affect 17.5% of Pakistan’s adult population, per WHO data.
The renaming rumours sparked outcry on X, with users criticising perceived political motives. Aurangzeb urged journalists to verify facts, stating, “It is requested to report the news after verifying the facts.” The clarification quelled misinformation, but the incident highlights the sensitivity of naming public institutions and the role of social media in amplifying controversies.
Read: CM Maryam Nawaz’ Mayo Hospital Visit Ignites Controversy
The JIC naming controversy underscores the importance of clear communication in public policy, especially in healthcare. Maintaining the JIC’s name preserves its legacy, while the new medical district signals Punjab’s commitment to advanced medical care. This issue resonates with Pakistanis, as access to quality healthcare remains a priority amid economic challenges.
