DH NEWS SERVICE
RAJOURI, jun 15
In a significant move aimed at curbing the misuse of habit-forming medicines and ensuring strict compliance with drug control regulations, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri, Abhishek Sharma, conducted surprise inspections of several medical establishments in Rajouri town. The inspection drive was carried out in the presence of Chief Medical Officer Rajouri, Dr. Manohar Lal Rana, and officials from the district police.
The action forms part of the district administration’s ongoing efforts to strengthen monitoring of pharmaceutical outlets and prevent the unauthorized sale of medicines that have the potential for abuse. During the inspections, the Deputy Commissioner personally reviewed records related to the purchase, sale, and distribution of regulated medicines, including habit-forming formulations that are required to be sold strictly in accordance with prescribed legal procedures. Officials conducted a detailed examination of stock registers, billing records, and other documents maintained by the establishments. The objective was to verify whether medical stores were complying with licensing conditions and maintaining proper records as required under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.
During the course of inspection, serious irregularities were reportedly detected at two medical establishments, namely M/s Hopewell Medicos located at Kheora and M/s Star Medicos situated in Gujjar Mandi. According to officials, the establishments failed to maintain sales records through the mandatory computerized billing system. In addition, alleged discrepancies were found in relation to the sale of habit-forming medicines, raising concerns regarding adherence to regulatory norms.
Taking immediate cognizance of the violations, the district administration initiated action under the relevant provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act. Acting on the findings of the inspection, the Licensing Authority ordered the suspension of the retail drug sale licenses of both establishments pending further investigation and orders.
Speaking during the inspection, the Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the sale and distribution of regulated medicines must be carried out with utmost responsibility and in strict conformity with the law. He noted that misuse of such medicines poses a serious threat to public health and can contribute to the growing problem of substance abuse among vulnerable sections of society.
He stated that the district administration has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against any violation of drug regulations and warned that stringent legal action would be taken against any medical establishment found indulging in unauthorized practices. He further directed all chemists and pharmacy operators in the district to ensure complete transparency in transactions, maintain accurate records, and strictly follow licensing conditions laid down by the authorities.
The Deputy Commissioner also stressed the importance of computerized billing systems in maintaining accountability and preventing illegal transactions involving regulated pharmaceutical products. He urged all stakeholders in the healthcare sector to cooperate with regulatory authorities in ensuring ethical and lawful practices.
Reaffirming the administration’s commitment to combating drug abuse, Sharma stated that sustained efforts are being made to make Rajouri a drug-free district. He said the administration would continue to conduct surprise inspections and regular monitoring of medical establishments across the district to ensure compliance with legal provisions and safeguard public interests.
The inspection drive has been widely viewed as a strong message to pharmaceutical retailers that violations of drug regulations will not be tolerated. Authorities have indicated that similar enforcement measures will continue in the coming weeks as part of a broader campaign to strengthen public health safeguards and prevent the misuse of controlled medicines in the district.
