The Supreme Court on Thursday directed federal and provincial health secretaries to take stern action for eradicating quackery and fake medicines from across the country. A three-member bench of the apex court comprising Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, Justice Ghulam Rabbani and Justice Jawwad S Khawaja directed the drug courts to expedite the process of such cases disposal.
In addition, the court directed DCOs to take action against those who violate Drug Act and submit a comprehensive report to the court in two months. The court passed these orders on Thursday while hearing a suo motu case regarding an incident reported in Jaranwala where an infant girl lost her limb due to a fake injection and afterwards lost her eyesight as well.
Additional Advocate General Punjab, EDO Health Faisalabad appeared before the court and apprised the bench about the action taken against Dr Muhammad Azeem, alleged for using fake medicines. Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry observed that medical treatment is a fundamental right of every citizen under Article 9 of the Constitution. Severe action should be taken against those involved in malpractice's irrespective of their position, the CJ added.
It is also the responsibility of the federal and provincial drug inspectors to take every step against those involved in heinous crime of producing fake medicines, the CJ further remarked. Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry observed that quacks are roaming scot-free in remote areas but the health department is neither checking nor taking any action against them.
EDO Health Faisalabad informed the court that an investigation was conducted against Dr Muhammad Azeem and he was found guilty. Afterwards PMDC had cancelled his license, he added. The court directed an action against Dr Azeem in accordance with the orders passed by the trial court.
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