Expired medicines distributed at north Kashmir PHC sparks outrage, BMO orders inquiry

Bandipora, Oct 16: Locals on Thursday alleged that expired medicines were distributed to patients at the Ayushman Bharat Comprehensive Primary Health Centre (PHC) Odina, in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district.

According to reports, a local female patient suffering from bone and joint pain was prescribed medication by a medic posted at the health centre. However, after collecting the prescribed medicines from the dispensary, the patient discovered that the tablets had already passed their expiry date.

“We are being given expired medicines that can endanger our lives,” said the female patient, showing the expired strips. “This is gross negligence, and the authorities must be held accountable.”

The attendants who accompanied the patient also voiced anger, alleging that the dispensary staff had handed over expired stock without checking the date of manufacture and expiry. “We want the administration to investigate whether this happened by mistake or if expired medicines are being distributed knowingly. Either way, this cannot be ignored,” they said.

When contacted, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Hajin, Dr. Syed Idrees Andrabi, confirmed that he has taken note of the allegations and ordered a detailed investigation. “A committee will be constituted to verify the claims. If it is proven that expired medicines were dispensed to patients, strict action will be taken against the concerned staff,” Dr. Andrabi said.

Meanwhile, locals have appealed to the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir to intervene and ensure accountability, saying that rural health institutions must not become “testing grounds for negligence. [KNT]