|
 In a significant move to curb the illegal distribution of narcotic and psychotropic substances across Gujarat, the Gujarat Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) has intensified its enforcement operations, targeting unauthorized sale practices among chemist shops across the state of Gujarat.
According to Gujarat FDCA Commissioner Dr H G Koshia, the department conducted 2,860 inspections of chemist shops in the financial year 2023-24, uncovering serious violations and alleged involvement in the unlawful sale of controlled substances. As a result, 425 licenses were suspended for up to 30 days, and 51 licenses were permanently cancelled due to non-compliance with the Drugs and Cosmetics (D&C) Act.
“Our enforcement teams have adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward the illicit sale of narcotic and psychotropic substances. This action is vital to protect public health and to prevent the misuse of these drugs, particularly among youth. The FDCA has also launched 40 court cases during the same period, reflecting the seriousness of the offenses detected,” said Dr. Koshia.
The Gujarat FDCA has carried out sustained enforcement efforts over the past eight years. From 2016 to 2024, the department inspected a total of 12,250 firms, with enforcement action taken against those found dealing in medications containing narcotic and psychotropic ingredients such as codeine and alprazolam. A total of 2157 licenses were suspended and 204 licenses got cancelled.
In 2016, 569 firms were inspected in which 169 licenses were suspended and 5 licenses cancelled. In 2017, 644 firms were inspected which 194 licenses were suspended and 4 licenses cancelled. In 2018, 1019 firms were inspected in which 499 licenses were suspended and 37 licenses cancelled. In 2019, 861 firms inspected in which 342 licenses were suspended and 42 licenses cancelled. In 2020, 452 firms were inspected in which 128 licenses were suspended and 16 licenses cancelled. In 2021, 659 firms were inspected in which 165 licenses were suspended and 20 licenses cancelled. In 2022, 5186 firms were inspected in which 235 licenses were suspended and 29 licenses cancelled.
“Our message to violators is clear. Any involvement in the illegal sale of narcotics will face strict legal consequences. The Gujarat FDCA remains committed to preserving the integrity of the pharmaceutical supply chain. The Gujarat FDCA urges all chemists and pharmacists to adhere strictly to regulatory guidelines, warning that intensified surveillance and punitive action will continue in the coming years to safeguard public health,” Dr Koshia emphasized.
|