Jammu, 17 June (H.S.): In a significant enforcement action, the health authorities in Mendhar, along with the local administration and police, sealed a private medical facility, Apex Health Care Clinic, located opposite Dak Bungalow in Mendhar town of Poonch district, over alleged violations and irregularities.

Official sources said that the action was carried out jointly by Block Medical Officer (BMO) Mendhar, Dr. Gazala, SHO Mendhar, a police team, and the Naib Tehsildar Mendhar during an inspection of the clinic.

Speaking to reporters, the BMO stated that no qualified Eye Specialist was available at the clinic at the time of inspection. She said that only a BUMS doctor was found operating at the facility, following which the authorities initiated action in accordance with the relevant rules and sealed the clinic pending further investigation.

The action has sparked strong reactions among local residents, who welcomed the move and demanded a comprehensive inquiry into the functioning of the clinic. Several locals alleged that members of the public had been misled and financially exploited in the name of specialized medical services.

“We have repeatedly raised concerns regarding the functioning of this clinic. A detailed investigation should be conducted to ascertain whether patients were being provided treatment without the presence of qualified specialists,” local residents said.

The people also urged the Health Department and district administration to scrutinize the records, permissions and medical practices of the clinic to ensure accountability and prevent any recurrence of such incidents.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar