BARAMULLA, July 4 -- A private diagnostic laboratory in Baramulla has been sealed by the Health Department after an allegedly erroneous thyroid test report issued to a 10-year-old boy triggered an official inspection, bringing the functioning of private clinical laboratories in the district under scrutiny.

The incident has also renewed concerns among residents over the rapid growth of private diagnostic laboratories, with calls for stricter regulation, regular inspections and action against any unethical practices.

According to the child's family, the boy, a resident of Naushera, Boniyar in Uri, was taken to Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla for medical consultation. The attending doctor advised a thyroid profile test, followin...