IMRAN SHAH
Kishtwar, (DD): In a swift response to circulating rumors, health officials in Kishtwar have categorically denied reports claiming that the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Dellar Chatroo was closed on February 4, 2025. Terming the allegations as baseless and misleading, authorities have urged the public to disregard the false information being spread by certain media outlets.
The controversy began when some media platforms reported that the PHC had been non-functional, causing panic and confusion among residents. However, according to an official statement from the health department, the center remained fully operational, and there was no disruption in healthcare services.
The confusion arose due to the temporary absence of Ms. Riffat Ara, an FMPHW Nurse posted at the PHC. She had traveled to Kishtwar after obtaining prior permission from senior health officials to collect essential vaccines. This fact has been officially verified by the concerned authorities, confirming that her absence was part of her official duties.
“Spreading such false information without verifying the facts not only misguides the public but also demoralizes healthcare workers who are committed to serving the community,” said an official spokesperson from the health department. The statement further condemned the irresponsible and sensationalist reporting, highlighting that it creates unnecessary panic and hampers the efficiency of public services.
Officials emphasized the importance of ethical journalism, stressing that media outlets must verify facts and seek official comments before publishing sensitive news. “Ethics demand that journalists verify facts and include official reactions. Unfortunately, this basic principle was ignored in this case,” the statement read.
The false report has caused unnecessary distress and reputational harm to Ms. Riffat Ara, who, according to officials, is considering legal action against the media outlet responsible for the defamatory content. Authorities have issued a strong warning, advising the media outlet to immediately retract the misleading report. Failure to comply will result in strict legal action under relevant laws.
Meanwhile, the health department has reassured the public that the PHC Dellar Chatroo remains fully functional, with vaccination services conducted regularly once every month as per the established schedule.
This incident has sparked broader concerns about the rise of unverified news and its damaging impact on public trust, particularly in crucial sectors like healthcare. Officials have urged the public to rely on verified information from official sources and not fall prey to sensational claims without proper evidence.(DD)