Mir Aatif
Bandipora, J&k, July 30: The Drug Control Department on Thursday sealed the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Kendra operating at District Hospital (DH) Bandipora after it was found to be allegedly functioning with an expired drug licence.
According to official sources, the licence of the medical outlet had expired and was not renewed within the six-month grace period prescribed under the applicable rules. Despite the expiry of the licence, the outlet was reportedly continuing its operations.
Following an inspection, the Drug Inspector sealed the medical store for allegedly operating without a valid drug licence. The action was taken under the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and the rules governing the licensing of medical establishments.
Sources said that once the prescribed renewal period expires, the licence cannot be renewed. The operator will now have to apply for a fresh drug licence in accordance with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules before the outlet can resume operations.
The action has raised questions among residents, who sought to know how a government-backed medicine outlet functioning within the premises of the District Hospital continued to operate after the expiry of its licence. They called for a review of the matter and urged the authorities to strengthen monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance with licensing requirements at healthcare facilities.
No official statement has been issued by the concerned authorities regarding the action. Further proceedings are expected to be carried out in accordance with the law.