Kashmir Impulse Desk

Srinagar, April 6

The Jammu and Kashmir government has introduced a new regulatory framework for drug de-addiction and rehabilitation centers, requiring mandatory licensing and setting detailed standards for infrastructure, staffing and treatment practices.

Under rules notified this week, all such centers must obtain approval from designated authorities before operating. 

Existing facilities have been given six months to comply and secure licenses under the new system.

The regulations, issued under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act of 1985, designate the directors of health services in J&K, or other notified officials, as licensing authorities.

Officials said licenses would be granted only after inspection and verification of facilities, staffing, treatment protocols and record-keeping systems, along with adherence to prescribed medical and ethical standards.

The rules also place restrictions on location, requiring centers operating in residential areas to obtain approval from local civic bodies and a no-objection certificate from the police.

Detailed infrastructure requirements have been outlined, including minimum space standards for inpatient facilities, separate areas for outpatient services and counseling, and distinct wards for men and women. 

Centers must also maintain emergency or detoxification beds under continuous medical supervision.

Staffing norms mandate the presence of qualified professionals, including psychiatrists, medical officers, psychologists, nurses and social workers, supported by administrative and operational staff.

Treatment protocols are to follow government-issued standard operating procedures as well as guidelines from national and international health agencies. 

The use of medication is restricted to approved therapies and must be prescribed by qualified medical personnel.

The framework also introduces stricter monitoring and record-keeping requirements. 

Each patient is to be assigned a unique identification number linked to a centralized database, and centers must maintain detailed records of treatment and drug dispensation for at least five years.

Facilities are required to report adverse drug reactions within 48 hours, and any death or serious incident must be reported within 24 hours to authorities, including the police and district health officials.

A monitoring committee comprising representatives from multiple departments will oversee compliance and performance. 

Authorities have the power to suspend or cancel licenses in cases of violations, including misuse of drugs, risks to patient safety or falsification of records.

The measures are part of broader efforts to strengthen oversight of rehabilitation services and ensure standardized care amid growing concerns over substance use in the region.