KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, April 4: In a decisive move to strengthen regulatory oversight and curb any possible misuse of medicines, the Drugs Control Department Pulwama on Saturday intensified its inspection drive across Pampore, Khrew and adjoining areas, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring strict adherence to legal provisions.
The enforcement drive, conducted on April 4, was carried out in close coordination with the Station House Officers (SHOs) of Pampore and Khrew, reflecting a joint effort between regulatory authorities and local law enforcement agencies. The coordinated action aimed to ensure full compliance with the provisions of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules, which govern the sale, distribution, and storage of pharmaceutical products across the country.
Officials said that multiple medical establishments, including retail and wholesale chemist outlets, were subjected to thorough inspections. The checking process involved a detailed scrutiny of operational practices, documentation, and infrastructure maintained by the chemists.
During the inspections, the department issued on-the-spot instructions to several chemists, directing them to strictly comply with mandatory requirements. Key directives included the installation and proper maintenance of CCTV cameras within premises to enhance surveillance and accountability. Chemists were also instructed to ensure that CCTV footage is preserved and readily accessible for inspection by authorities whenever required.
In a significant push towards modernization and transparency, the department emphasized the immediate transition to computerized billing systems. Officials noted that digital billing not only ensures accuracy in transactions but also helps in maintaining traceable records, thereby minimizing the scope for irregularities.
Particular attention was given to the handling of Schedule H1 drugs, a category of medicines that includes certain antibiotics and habit-forming drugs, which are prone to misuse if not properly regulated. Inspecting teams meticulously examined purchase and sale records of these drugs, ensuring that chemists maintain detailed and updated registers as mandated under the law.
Officials reiterated that maintaining proper documentation is not merely a procedural formality but a critical safeguard against the unauthorized sale and potential abuse of sensitive medicines. Any discrepancies or lapses in record-keeping were noted, and strict instructions were issued for immediate rectification.
The Drugs Control Department underscored its zero-tolerance policy towards any violation of statutory provisions. Authorities warned that non-compliance, whether in documentation, infrastructure, or adherence to prescribed norms, will invite strict legal action under the relevant sections of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
Reaffirming its commitment to public health, the department stated that such inspection drives will be conducted on a regular basis across the district. The intensified monitoring is aimed at ensuring that pharmaceutical practices remain ethical, transparent, and in strict conformity with regulatory standards.
Officials further stressed that these proactive measures are essential to prevent the misuse of drugs, curb illegal practices, and protect the community from the risks associated with unregulated pharmaceutical activities. The department also urged chemists to cooperate fully with inspection teams and adopt all necessary measures to remain compliant.
The drive sends a strong message that regulatory vigilance is being stepped up in Pulwama district, particularly in sensitive areas like Pampore and Khrew, where authorities are determined to ensure that public health remains uncompromised.
