Ludhiana, Oct. 4 -- The Punjab State Human Rights Commission has directed the Ludhiana civil surgeon to respond to a complaint over alleged irregularities at the civil hospital blood bank, including the absence of a licence and a designated blood transfusion officer (BTO).

A local activist had complained to the commission recently, claiming it was mandatory for a blood bank to have a blood transfusion officer and a valid licence under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. "Without a blood transfusion officer, who is the competent authority to ensure that all safety protocols are adhered to, the blood bank is jeopardising the safety of people," said the complainant, Arvind Sharma.

The commission has asked the civil surgeon to file a status report...