Last Updated on January 5, 2024 by The Health Master
Strict actions imposed on Pharma Wholesalers
The Morigaon district drug regulator in Assam has issued a stern warning to pharmaceutical wholesalers following the identification of several anomalies and breaches of license conditions.
The regulatory authority, in coordination with the state drug controller, aims to enforce the necessary actions to curb illegal practices in the pharmaceutical trade.
This article delves into the violations discovered by drug inspectors, the subsequent measures taken by the authorities, and the response from the drug control administration.
Inspection Findings Reveal Serious Lapses:
During inspections conducted by Dr. Chandrajit Dohutia, the drug inspector in Morigaon, numerous mistakes and irregularities were detected in the records of the wholesalers.
Inadequate bill preparation emerged as a significant issue, with several bill books lacking essential details such as the seller’s name, address, and contact number.
Moreover, it was discovered that some wholesalers were supplying medicines to entities without valid licenses from the drug control department.
Additionally, certain wholesalers were found to be operating retail shops, directly selling medicines to patients, which constitutes a severe offense.
Breach of License Conditions Demands Urgent Action:
In a letter addressed to the district committee of wholesale dealers and copied to higher authorities, Dr. Dohutia highlighted that such actions by wholesalers constitute a breach of license conditions.
He emphasized the need for immediate action under Rule 65 of the Drug Act, as mandated by the drugs and cosmetics act, to curb this illegal business.
Enforcement Measures Initiated by State Drug Controller:
Following the intimation from the drug inspector, the state drug controller promptly initiated stringent actions against the wholesalers who violated the established norms.
These measures involve the suspension and cancellation of licenses, as well as surprise raids conducted at both retail and wholesale premises.
This information was confirmed by reliable sources closely associated with the headquarters of the drug control administration.
Statewide Call for Legal Action:
Drawing attention to the prevailing violation of pharmaceutical trade laws in other districts, several drug inspectors have also written to the state DC, urging legal action against violators.
The increasing number of complaints regarding the supply of medicines to illegal pharmacies, improper record-keeping, unlicensed pharmacies, and the dispensing of medicines by unqualified individuals has prompted these appeals.
Commitment to Combat Irregularities:
In response to the concerns raised by the drug inspector, the state drug controller, Biswajit Talukdar, acknowledged receiving numerous complaints from various districts regarding the supply of medicines to illegal pharmacies and the absence of proper billing practices.
He assured the public that the department has already initiated legal actions against violators, and this process will continue to rectify the situation. Suspension or cancellation of several licenses is imminent, as per the DC’s statement.
Drug Inspector’s Perspective:
Dr. Chandrajit Dohutia, the drug inspector responsible for the inspections, stressed the importance of correcting the identified violations and conducting business through proper channels.
With the appointment of drug inspectors in all districts, enforcement has become more rigorous, with complaints being thoroughly investigated.
Inspections have been intensified, and strict warnings are being issued, reflecting the aim of purifying distribution channels and bolstering enforcement activities.
Addressing Local Dynamics:
As a recently established district, Morigaon has appointed its first drug inspector, Dr. Chandrajit, to oversee pharmaceutical practices.
Given the district’s size, which comprises less than 1,500 medicine dealers, including wholesalers and retailers, all drug inspectors are providing opportunities for traders to rectify any anomalies identified by regulatory officers.
Industry Association’s Response:
When approached for comments, the president and secretary of the Assam Drug Dealers Association (ADDA), Pramod Mour and Vikram Chaudhury, respectively, stated that they had not seen the letter sent to the district committee.
However, they assured that the matter would be taken seriously and looked into promptly.
Conclusion:
The Morigaon district drug regulator, in conjunction with the state drug controller, has taken a firm stance against pharmaceutical wholesalers who have breached license conditions.
The identification of irregularities, such as improper bill preparation and supplying medicines to entities without valid licenses, has prompted swift action from the authorities.
The drug control administration is committed to eradicating illegal practices and ensuring the integrity of pharmaceutical distribution channels across the state.
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