Telangana HC asks for action against unlicensed rehab centre in Medchal-Malkajgiri

The Telangana High Court has admitted a petition filed by Kamala Devi, who alleges that her husband was admitted to an unlicensed rehabilitation centre in Dammaiguda, Medchal–Malkajgiri district. Despite complaints to health authorities, no substantial action was taken.

By Legal Correspondent

Hyderabad: Justice Nagesh Bheemapaka of the Telangana High Court admitted a writ petition questioning the failure of health authorities to act against an allegedly unlicensed rehabilitation facility operating in Medchal–Malkajgiri district.

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The petition was filed by Kamala Devi, who approached the Court after learning that her husband had been admitted to the Sai Pragathi Rehabilitation Centre in Dammaiguda, Keesara Mandal, an establishment she later discovered lacked statutory approvals.

According to the petitioner, despite representations to authorities, including the District Medical and Health Officer and the Director of Public Health and Family Welfare, no meaningful action was initiated. She sought judicial intervention to declare their inaction as unconstitutional and contrary to principles of due process.

During the hearing, it emerged that the Public Health Department had acknowledged the rehabilitation centre was functioning without a valid licence. While the centre had submitted an application for registration, officials informed that the process remained incomplete. A fact-finding inquiry had reportedly been undertaken following a complaint to the District Collector, and a report had been filed.

Taking note of these submissions, Justice Bheemapaka issued notices to the respondents and instructed the Government Pleader to secure a report on the present status of the centre, including steps taken to ensure compliance with licensing requirements.