Locals in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district were left shocked and outraged after allegations surfaced that expired medicines were distributed at the Ayushman Bharat Comprehensive Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Odina.
According to reports, a woman suffering from bone and joint pain was prescribed medicines by a medic at the facility. However, upon collecting the prescribed tablets from the dispensary, she discovered that they had already expired.
“We are being given expired medicines that can endanger our lives,” said the distressed patient, displaying the expired strips. “This is unacceptable negligence. Someone has to take responsibility.”
Her attendants expressed similar anger, accusing the staff of carelessness in dispensing outdated medicines without verifying expiry dates. “We want to know if this was a mistake or a deliberate act. Either way, it’s dangerous and needs serious attention,” they said.
Responding to the incident, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Hajin, Dr. Syed Idrees Andrabi, confirmed that an official inquiry has been initiated. “A committee will be formed to investigate the matter thoroughly. If the allegations are proven true, strict action will follow against those responsible,” Dr. Andrabi assured.
Meanwhile, residents have urged the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir to ensure accountability and prevent such incidents from reoccurring. “Rural health centres are meant to provide care and trust, not fear and risk,” said one local elder. “The people of Kashmir deserve dignity, safety, and reliable healthcare.”
In a place where healthcare is often the only lifeline for many, trust must never be compromised. This incident is a wake-up call for stronger supervision, transparency, and compassion in public health systems. The community’s voice is clear — negligence in healthcare is not just an error; it’s a breach of humanity.
