Crackdown on Unlicensed Medical Practices
District authorities in Gujrat, Punjab, have intensified their anti-quackery campaign aimed at eliminating unqualified and illegal healthcare providers. Acting on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Noor-ul-Ain, a special team led by Dr. Waheed, Deputy District Health Officer (DDHO) of Tehsil Kharian, conducted surprise inspections across several local areas.
During the operation, inspections were carried out in Nasira and nearby villages. The team discovered an individual operating as a doctor without any recognized medical qualification at Raja Medical Store. The fake practitioner was found prescribing medicines and treating patients without authorization.
Illegal Clinic Sealed and Case Forwarded
Authorities immediately sealed the unregistered clinic, detaining the impersonator for further investigation. The case has been referred to the Punjab Healthcare Commission (PHC) in Lahore for legal action under the Punjab Healthcare Commission Act.
Officials stated that such illegal practices pose serious risks to public health, as untrained individuals often misdiagnose patients or prescribe inappropriate medicines. The PHC has been conducting regular raids across Punjab to curb the rise of quack clinics, which reportedly number in the thousands across the province.
Inspections of Licensed Clinics
The same inspection team also visited Aftab Homeopathic Clinic in Noorung, where a qualified and licensed homeopathic doctor was found operating in accordance with official healthcare regulations.
According to Dr. Waheed, two locations were inspected during the day — one was cleared after verification, while the other, operating illegally, was sealed on the spot.
Ongoing Efforts to Protect Public Health
Officials reiterated their commitment to ensuring safe and professional healthcare for all citizens. They urged the public to avoid seeking treatment from unqualified practitioners and to report any suspicious clinics to the local health department.
The Punjab Healthcare Commission continues to run province-wide awareness campaigns against quackery. In recent years, the PHC has reportedly sealed more than 30,000 illegal medical establishments across Punjab, underscoring the government’s determination to protect citizens from medical malpractice.
The Gujrat operation reflects the administration’s ongoing resolve to maintain healthcare standards and promote accountability within the medical sector.
