Residents of Odina in north Kashmir’s Bandipora district are voicing anger and fear after allegations surfaced that expired medicines were distributed to patients at the Ayushman Bharat Comprehensive Primary Health Centre (PHC).
The controversy erupted when a local woman, who had visited the PHC for bone and joint pain, reportedly received expired tablets from the dispensary. Upon checking the medicine strips at home, she discovered they had long passed their expiry date — a revelation that left her and her family deeply alarmed.
“We are being given expired medicines that can endanger our lives,” the patient said, holding up the expired packs. “This is not just negligence — it’s a violation of trust. Someone must be held responsible.”
Her attendants echoed her frustration, demanding an immediate investigation into how such a serious lapse occurred. “If this was a mistake, it’s unacceptable. And if it was done knowingly, it’s even worse,” one of them stated. “People in rural areas already struggle to access healthcare — now we’re being given expired drugs?”
In response, Block Medical Officer (BMO) Hajin, Dr. Syed Idrees Andrabi, confirmed that an inquiry has been ordered. “We have taken note of the complaint. A committee will be formed to verify the facts. If any staff member is found guilty of dispensing expired medicines, strict disciplinary action will follow,” he assured.
Locals have urged the Directorate of Health Services Kashmir to step in, stressing that rural health centres should be places of healing, not fear. “Our lives matter just as much as anyone else’s. Healthcare must mean safety, not carelessness,” a resident added.
This incident is yet another reminder of the pressing need for oversight, compassion, and accountability within public health institutions — especially in underserved regions like north Kashmir. The people’s voice is clear: negligence is not acceptable where health is at stake.
