Human Rights panel seeks report on Ludhiana Hospital blood bank irregularities

Ludhiana: A complaint filed by a local activist over alleged irregularities at the Ludhiana Civil Hospital blood bank has prompted the Punjab State Human Rights Commission (PSHRC) to intervene, directing the civil surgeon to submit a detailed report on the matter.

The complaint alleged that the facility has been operating without a valid license and does not have a designated Blood Transfusion Officer (BTO), both mandatory under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.

Medical Dialogues had previously reported that the Ludhiana Civil Hospital’s blood bank has come under scrutiny after it was revealed that it has been operating for the past three years without a valid licence and a designated Blood Transfusion Officer (BTO) — both mandatory under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. The prolonged lapse has raised serious concerns about patient safety and administrative oversight.

Also Read:No Licence, No Transfusion officer at Ludhiana Civil Hospital Blood Bank

The PSHRC, taking cognisance of the complaint, has instructed the Ludhiana Civil Surgeon to submit a status report a week before the next hearing, which is scheduled for December 17.

A senior doctor formerly associated with the hospital revealed that the license had not been renewed for several years due to the blood bank’s failure to meet regulatory standards.

In addition to these issues, Sharma’s complaint also points to operational discrepancies — notably, that one of the two mobile vans used for organizing blood donation camps has not been formally registered. He further alleged that the Civil Surgeon was aware of these irregularities but did not take corrective action.

Also Read:Punjab Health Minister Inspects Civil Hospital

Regarding the appointment of a designated BTO, Dr. Kaur added that their pathologists are qualified to serve in that role.