The Himalayan Journal of Tuberculosis and Respiratory Diseases is committed to providing a fair and transparent process for addressing complaints and appeals related to published articles, editorial decisions, or any other aspects of the journal's operations. Our Complaints and Appeals Policy aims to ensure that concerns raised by authors, reviewers, readers, or other stakeholders are addressed promptly, impartially, and effectively. 

We outline our policy and the process for handling complaints and appeals:

1. Complaints and appeals may relate to various aspects of the journal. It includes editorial decisions, publication processes, authorship disputes, ethical concerns, or conflicts of interest.
2. The most common appeals and complaints revolve around dissatisfaction with editorial decisions, concerns about the accuracy or integrity of published articles, or disputes regarding authorship or attribution.
3. Complaints or appeals should be submitted to the editorial office in writing, either by email or through the journal's online submission system.
4. Submissions should include detailed information about the nature of the complaint or appeal. Relevant information, supporting evidence, or documentation, along with the desired outcome or resolution sought should be included. 
5. Upon receiving a complaint or appeal, the editorial team conducts an initial review to assess the validity and significance of the issues raised.
6. The complainant or appellant receives an acknowledgment of receipt, confirming that their concerns have been received and will be further investigated.
7. The editorial team investigates each complaint or appeal thoroughly, consulting relevant stakeholders, experts, or institutional authorities as needed to gather additional information or perspectives.
8. The investigation process may involve reviewing editorial records, correspondence, manuscript files, or other relevant documentation to understand the context and circumstances of the complaint or appeal.
9. Efforts are made to resolve complaints or appeals promptly and fairly. Its goal is to achieve a satisfactory outcome for all parties involved.
10. Throughout the investigation process, the editorial team maintains open communication with the complainant or appellant, providing regular updates on the status of their complaint or appeal.
11. Timely responses are provided to address any questions, concerns, or additional information provided by the complainant or appellant during the investigation.
12. If the complainant or appellant is dissatisfied with the outcome of the initial investigation, they may request an appeal of the decision.
13. Appeals should be submitted in writing to the editorial office, clearly stating the grounds for appeal and any new evidence or information to be considered.
14. Appeals are reviewed by the editorial board or an independent appeals committee, which conducts a thorough reassessment of the issues raised and may overturn or modify the initial decision based on the merits of the case.
15. The final decision on complaints or appeals is communicated to the complainant or appellant in writing, along with a rationale for the decision reached.
16. Efforts are made to address any remedial actions or resolutions agreed upon as part of the decision. It is made sure that the actions align to achieve a satisfactory outcome and maintain the trust and confidence of all stakeholders.