Nagpur: The Maharashtra Govt on Thursday informed the Nagpur bench of Bombay high court that the Public Health Department is preparing a new regulatory framework to act against illegal pathology laboratories operating across the state, with the proposed rules expected to be placed before the legislature during the upcoming Assembly session in Mumbai. Hearing a criminal PIL by Yavatmal-based social activist Digambar Pajgade, a division bench comprising Justices Anil Kilor and Raj Wakode directed the govt to submit a detailed affidavit by next week outlining the proposed rules and their key provisions. The petition alleged that thousands of pathology laboratories across Maharashtra are being operated by technicians holding DMLT and CMLT qualifications despite existing norms requiring such laboratories to function under the supervision of MBBS-qualified doctors or postgraduate medical specialists in pathology, microbiology or biochemistry. According to the plea, the widespread operation of laboratories by inadequately qualified personnel poses a serious threat to public health and compromises the reliability of diagnostic reports relied upon for medical treatment. During an earlier hearing, HC had sought details regarding action taken by the govt against allegedly unauthorised pathology laboratories functioning across the state. In response, the state informed the bench that fresh rules were currently being drafted to address the issue comprehensively. On Thursday, HC made strong oral observations regarding the impact of faulty pathology reports on patient care. The judges noted that inaccurate diagnostic findings and delays in availability of essential medicines in proper quantities often created severe difficulties for patients. The court advised the Public Health Department to ensure that the proposed regulatory framework incorporates safeguards protecting patients’ interests and strengthens accountability within the diagnostic sector.
