Complaint Policy

Journal of Bacha Khan Medical College (JBKMC), Mardan, Pakistan

The Journal of Bacha Khan Medical College (JBKMC) is committed to upholding the highest standards of editorial integrity, transparency, and ethical publishing practices. This policy outlines the procedures for receiving, reviewing, and resolving complaints related to the editorial and publication processes of the journal.

1. Scope of Complaints

Complaints may include, but are not limited to, the following issues:

  • Allegations of plagiarism, fabrication, or unethical research conduct

  • Significant errors in published articles

  • Suspected bias, conflict of interest, or misconduct during the peer-review process

  • Delays or non-responsiveness in editorial decisions or publication timelines

  • Editorial inaccuracy or misrepresentation of data or authorship

2. Submission of Complaints

All complaints must be submitted in writing via email to the Editor-in-Chief at:
Email: jbkmc@bkmc.edu.pk

The complaint should include:

  • Full name, affiliation, and contact information of the complainant

  • A clear and detailed description of the issue

  • Any supporting documents or evidence relevant to the complaint

Anonymous complaints will generally not be considered unless they are substantiated with verifiable evidence.

3. Acknowledgment and Preliminary Review

  • All complaints will be acknowledged within 7 working days of receipt.

  • The Editor-in-Chief will conduct an initial assessment to determine the nature and seriousness of the issue.

4. Investigation Process

  • If the complaint warrants further examination, the matter will be escalated to the Editorial Board.

  • The board may consult external reviewers or ethical experts to ensure a fair and unbiased investigation.

  • The complainant may be asked to provide additional information or clarification during the review.

5. Resolution and Communication

  • A formal response detailing the findings and decision will be communicated to the complainant within 30 working days.

  • If additional time is required, the complainant will be notified of the delay and given a revised timeline.

  • Where a complaint is upheld, the journal will take appropriate corrective measures, which may include:

    • Erratum or correction

    • Retraction of the article

    • Editorial apology

    • Process revision to prevent recurrence

6. Confidentiality and Transparency

  • All complaints will be handled with strict confidentiality.

  • Information will only be shared with individuals directly involved in the investigation.

  • JBKMC is committed to editorial transparency and will publish formal corrections or retractions when warranted.

7. Appeals Process

If the complainant is not satisfied with the outcome:

  • They may file a formal appeal to an independent committee appointed by the Editorial Board.

  • The appeal must be based on new evidence or significant procedural concerns.

  • The decision of the appeals committee will be final and binding.

For any ethical concerns or unresolved disputes beyond the journal’s jurisdiction, the matter may be referred to the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE).