-In compliance of the directions issued by Haryana State Legal Services Authority, Ms. Aparna Bhardwaj, Chief Judicial Magistrate-cum-Secretary, District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Panchkula, conducted a surprise inspection of the Drug De-Addiction Centre located at the Civil Hospital, Sector-6, Panchkula today.
During the inspection, Ms. Bhardwaj took a detailed round of the premises to assess the facilities being provided to the patients and to review the general upkeep of the Centre. She observed that out of the two lifts installed in the premises, one lift was not functional, causing inconvenience to patients and staff. It was noted that the De-Addiction Centre is situated on the fourth floor, making the availability of functional lifts essential for patients and staff, many of whom face mobility challenges. She directed that the concerned authorities be informed immediately to ensure timely repair and maintenance of the lifts.
Ms. Bhardwaj interacted personally with several patients undergoing treatment at the Centre. She enquired about their living conditions, the availability of medical facilities, daily routine, and any difficulties faced during their stay. She assured the patients that their concerns would be appropriately addressed and emphasised that the purpose of her visit was to ensure that proper standards of care and support were being maintained.
Ms. Bhardwaj examined the attendance register of the Centre to verify staff presence and also checked various other registers maintained there, including those related to patient records and daily activities. Particular attention was paid to the records concerning absconding patients. She inquired about the details of any such patients and the measures adopted by the authorities in such cases.
Further, Ms. Bhardwaj inspected the deployment of security personnel by checking the attendance of guards stationed during both day and night shifts. She emphasised the need for strict vigilance and proper security measures to prevent any untoward incidents or unauthorised movements of patients.
Ms. Bhardwaj said the inspection aimed to ensure that all directions of Haryana State Legal Services Authority are being strictly adhered to and that the De-Addiction Centre continues to function effectively in providing medical and rehabilitative support to persons suffering from drug dependence. Ms. Bhardwaj instructed the hospital administration to take immediate steps to rectify the deficiencies observed during the inspection and to submit a compliance report at the earliest.
