The pharmacies in Kashmir are under surveillance as multiple pharmacies across Kashmir have been found flouting important government regulations, which increase worry over the sale of Habit-forming drugs (HFD). 

The Drug Controller of Kashmir disseminated clear instructions to the pharmacies, which directed the installation of full HD CCTV cameras with 1080p resolution and supervision of computerized records for purchase and sale. However, many chemists are simply overlooking these guidelines.

The inspections have been conducted recently in several medical facilities in Srinagar and Jammu. They were found to be liable for perpetrating violations and noncompliance with standing instructions. These pharmacies were latched as a preventive step.

The Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Department last year held a strong measure against pharmacies that were involved in the illicit sale of Habit-forming drugs (HFD) and suspended the licenses of 120 license holders across Jammu Kashmir. The health department has chosen to heighten its action on pharmacies that are found to be flouting the norms that are issued periodically through various mandates and notices. Previously the health department commenced several measures to confirm that the HFDs are sold by the retailer strictly according to the legal provisions that are instructed under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules. 

An officer from the Drug Controller’s office said that the unchecked sale of HFD poses a grave threat to public health and safety, exacerbating the already dire situation of drug abuse in the region. The uncontrolled flouting of regulations by pharmacies was a major concern. They cannot allow such blatant violations to continue unchecked. The health and well-being of citizens are at stake, the officer continued.

Lotika Khajuria, State Drug Controller said for the past six months, considerable actions have been made to improve the supervision at chemists and other shops that sell medicines. The CCTV camera installation is nearing completion at a rate of more than 90 to 95 percent, enclosing wholesale and retail points, including hospitals and district hospitals. The supervision is not only attentive to psychotropic drugs but also extends to other prescription medications, such as antimicrobial drugs, confirming they are dispensed properly and not misused.

Lotika said that the significance of detailed billing is to facilitate the tracking of pharmaceuticals from procurement to distribution. She also said that in case of non-compliance with licensing laws or inadequate keeping of records, actions such as suspension of license are carried out, and motivational and awareness programs are to encourage compliance and ensure the well-being of both consumers and regulatory standards.

Concerning recent incidents such as the seizure of Topendedol at the airport, she said that an FIR had been filed against the concerned party, underlining collective actions with specialists and stringent legal action against the defaulters.

Khajuria said that, in the face of considerable legal proceedings, rigorous actions are made to maintain the probity of the Inspectorate Department and build public trust.

 (Input from various sources)

 (Rehash/Lavanya Beeraboina/MSM)