Religious Body Clears Human Milk Banks with Strict Conditions
The Council of Islamic Ideology has approved the establishment of human milk banks in Pakistan. The decision comes after long debate, public criticism, and delays over religious and ethical concerns.
The council stated that human milk banking is permissible under strict conditions. However, it emphasized that a clear legal framework must be developed before full implementation. This is to ensure compliance with Islamic principles and prevent any misuse of the system.
The ruling was announced during the 243rd meeting held in Islamabad. Members reviewed a formal request submitted by the Sindh government seeking religious guidance on the matter.
Officials said the decision aims to balance medical needs with religious sensitivities. The council stressed that regulations must be transparent and strictly enforced. This includes maintaining detailed records of all donors and recipients.
Strict Guidelines Introduced to Protect Family Lineage
The council set clear operational conditions for human milk banks. It ruled that the system must follow a one-donor-to-one-infant policy. Pooling of milk from multiple donors will not be allowed under any circumstances.
This measure is designed to protect family lineage and avoid complications related to milk kinship, known in Islamic law as “raza’at.” Proper documentation of donor and infant records will be mandatory.
Authorities will also need to maintain full transparency in all transactions. Every donation must be traceable. This is considered essential to ensure religious compliance and public trust.
The concept of milk kinship is an important aspect of Islamic jurisprudence. It establishes familial relationships based on breastfeeding. The council’s conditions aim to prevent any ambiguity in such relationships.
The initiative had previously faced suspension due to these concerns. In 2024, Pakistan’s first human milk bank project was halted after objections from religious scholars and segments of the public.
Medical Community Welcomes Policy Shift
The suspended project was originally launched in 2023 by the Sindh Institute of Child Health and Neonatology in collaboration with UNICEF. It aimed to support premature and critically ill infants who require breast milk.
Following the new approval, medical experts have welcomed the development. Pediatric specialists believe regulated milk banks can save lives. They argue that such systems are essential for neonatal care.
Jamal Raza, director of SICHN, called the decision a major breakthrough. He stated that it could allow the revival of the previously suspended program.
Health professionals emphasize that human milk banks can significantly improve infant survival rates. They are especially important for babies without access to maternal milk.
The decision marks a careful step forward. It reflects an attempt to integrate medical innovation with religious guidance. The focus now shifts to creating a legal and operational framework for safe implementation.
If properly regulated, the system could become a major advancement in neonatal healthcare in Pakistan.
