Examiner Bureau | Ramban:
The Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Banihal, has constituted a four-member inquiry committee to investigate allegations of canvassing, solicitation and unauthorized influence over patients and their attendants within and around the premises of Sub-District Hospital (SDH), Banihal.
The action follows a complaint alleging that certain individuals associated with private medical shops, diagnostic laboratories and other healthcare establishments were attempting to influence patients visiting the government hospital.
According to the official order, the matter was initially referred to the Block Medical Officer (BMO), Banihal, for verification. The BMO’s preliminary report indicated the need for a detailed fact-finding inquiry into the allegations.
The inquiry committee will be headed by the Tehsildar, Banihal, and includes the Block Medical Officer, Banihal, Naib Tehsildar (Headquarters), Banihal, and the Station House Officer (SHO) of Police Station Banihal as members.
The committee has been directed to conduct a comprehensive inquiry by examining all relevant evidence, including CCTV footage, hospital records, visitor registers, and statements of complainants, witnesses and other concerned persons.
It has also been tasked with identifying any individuals, intermediaries or private establishments found to be involved in canvassing, solicitation, inducement or any other form of unauthorized influence over patients and their attendants.
The SDM’s order noted that such activities, if established, could compromise patient welfare, institutional discipline and the orderly functioning of the government healthcare institution, and may invite administrative as well as legal action under the relevant provisions of law.
Pending completion of the inquiry, the Block Medical Officer and the SHO, Banihal, have been directed to maintain strict vigilance within the hospital premises and ensure that no unauthorized person engages in such activities.
