Srinagar, Jan 24 — Authorities sealed a clinic in the Dara Harwan area of Srinagar following allegations of improper treatments linked to cases of acute liver failure (ALF) in children with samples of medicines taken for investigation, officials confirmed on Friday.
The Department of Paediatrics at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar raised concerns over a spike in ALF cases attributed to ‘unproven therapies administered by self-proclaimed healers.’
However, the clinic operated by 80-year-old Peer Hakeem Gulam Qadir Reshi, widely known as “Qadir Bab,” has denied allegations of malpractice.
Reshi, a third-generation healer from Saida Pora Bala, denied these claims, stating his treatment methods are rooted in Quranic recitation and herbal traditions without administering medication.
“We only recite the Quran over children; no medicines are given. Our practices are entirely faith-based, and thousands of children have benefitted from them over decades,” said Reshi.
He insisted the allegations were unfounded and called on local authorities to speak to parents who have brought their children to him.
Reshi further cited a recent case where a child suffering from severe jaundice reportedly recovered after his intervention. “Parents continue to trust us because they witness results,” he added.
Amid concerns, local authorities sealed the clinic and seized medications pending laboratory tests.
Officials assured a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations.
While many parents have reportedly lauded Reshi’s traditional methods, citing successful recoveries, medical experts warn of the risks associated with unverified treatments.