The Himachal Pradesh Police conducted a statewide anti-drug drive on Tuesday, inspecting 482 chemist and medical shops, 22 pharmaceutical wholesalers, and seven medical practitioners. As a result, 13 notices were issued under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940, for various irregularities. Additionally, two medical clinics were found operating without valid licences and faced action under the same Act.
Joint Operation Under Drug-Free Himachal Campaign
The drive was carried out jointly by the police, the Drug Control Administration, and the Special Task Force (STF) as part of the second phase of the ‘Drug-Free Himachal’ campaign. The campaign was launched by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to curb drug abuse in the state.
During the operation, teams conducted intensive inspections of chemist shops, medical stores, pharmaceutical wholesalers, and medical practitioners. They checked compliance with the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
Scrutiny of Records and Licences
Officials scrutinised the validity of licences, purchase and sale records, stock registers, medical prescriptions, billing and digital transaction records. They also examined the storage, sale, and distribution of controlled and psychotropic medicines to ensure adherence to legal norms.
A police spokesperson confirmed that legal action had been initiated against establishments where violations were detected. Advisories were issued to several pharmacies and medical outlets to ensure future compliance.
Impact and Next Steps
The drive aims to tighten the noose around illegal drug trade and misuse of pharmaceutical products. The authorities have warned of stricter actions in subsequent phases of the campaign. The police urged the public to report any suspicious activities related to drug sales.
