Srinagar, Sept 10: The Jammu and Kashmir Medical Council (JKMC) has tightened regulations for private de-addiction clinics and centres across the Union Territory to prevent the misuse of controlled substances, ensuring safe, ethical treatment and improved healthcare practices for public health and safety.
On Wednesday, the JKMC, through a public notice, informed that it has introduced stricter guidelines to regulate private de-addiction clinics operating within the UT.
The move comes amid rising concerns over the improper prescription and dispensation of controlled substances, as well as the mismanagement of addiction treatment services.
The council specifically cited growing issues with the misuse of medications such as Buprenorphine-Naloxone and other narcotic or psychotropic drugs. It stressed the urgent need for enhanced oversight to prevent exploitation and safeguard public health.
According to the JKMC notification, any medical practitioner seeking registration with the council to provide de-addiction treatment or to prescribe or dispense these substances will now be required to submit an affidavit before a Judicial Magistrate of the First Class, strictly adhering to the prescribed format.
Dr M. Salim Khan, President of the J&K Medical Council, said many doctors come to the UT to set up de-addiction clinics and must first complete the registration process with the council.
“They are required to submit proper documentation and must not operate any other clinic in their name. This measure is aimed at preventing the misuse of oral substitution drugs and ensuring that de-addiction clinics function in a regulated manner,” he said.
Officials clarified that any individual operating a drug de-addiction clinic in J&K must undergo mandatory CID verification, which is a vital part of the approval process. No clinic will be allowed to function without this clearance.
This initiative reflects the council’s proactive approach toward ensuring that addiction treatment services are delivered in a responsible, transparent, and ethical manner. The notification has been issued with the approval of the competent authority and applies to all practitioners operating within the union territory.
