Karnataka HC Allows Jan Anushadhi Kendras to Continue Operations in Government Hospitals

Rumela De Sarkar

Karnataka HC Allows Jan Anushadhi Kendras to Continue Operations in Government Hospitals

Written By : Rumela De Sarkar Published On 2025-12-14T12:30:47+05:30 | Updated On 14 Dec 2025 12:31 PM IST

Jan Aushadhi Kendras Can Continue in Govt Hospitals, Rules Karnataka High Court

Dharwad: Jan Aushadhi Kendras (JAKs) operating within government hospital premises in Karnataka can continue functioning after the Dharwad bench of the Karnataka High Court quashed the state government’s order directing their closure.

The verdict was delivered on Wednesday by Justice M. Nagaprasanna, who allowed a batch of petitions filed by Rakesh Mahalingappa L. and others. The detailed written order is awaited.

It orally said, "We will not allow one wing of the government to tinker with the medicines being given to the poor, whether it is free of cost or for a nominal price," reports Live Law.

Also Read:Govt sets target to open 25000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras by March 2027: Minister

The petitions challenged the government order dated May 14, which directed the shutdown of all Jan Aushadhi Kendras located inside government hospitals. Petitioners argued that the order was passed in haste without prior consultation and violated public interest. They also noted that significant investments had already been made in infrastructure, equipment, and staffing for the Kendras.

The petitioners contended that the order violated their right to livelihood under Article 19(1)(g) and the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. It also adversely affected citizens’ Right to Health, they argued, reports TNIE.

Also Read:Delhi gets 17 new Jan Aushadhi Kendras, 33 Arogya Mandirs

According to Live Law, the plea further claimed that Jan Aushadhi Kendras provide generic medicines at 50-90% reduced rates, making healthcare accessible to those who fall under the below poverty line category, senior citizens on fixed incomes, daily wage workers, and chronic patients requiring regular medication. Thus, it does not in any manner affect the larger public interest, adversely and rather their closure impacts citizens' right to health.

The Additional Advocate General argued that government hospitals already supply medicines free of cost, making the operation of Jan Aushadhi Kendras within hospital premises unnecessary. He submitted that the Kendras were free to continue functioning outside hospital campuses and that the State intended only to reclaim government land occupied within hospital premises.

karnataka high courtJan Aushadhi Kendragovernment hospitalsKarnataka governmentpublic healthcare

Rumela De Sarkar

With a keen interest in storytelling and a dedication to uncovering facts, Rumela De Sarkar joined Medical Dialogues as a Correspondent in 2024. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of North Bengal. Rumela covers a wide range of healthcare topics, including medical news, policy updates, and developments related to doctors, hospitals, and medical education