‘Samples failed, medicines still selling in Himachal markets’: HC raps drug controller, seeks report from govt
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The Himachal Pradesh High Court has adopted a tough stance against the sale of substandard medicines, demanding explanations from the state’s Drug Controller regarding how medicines that failed quality tests continue to be sold in the market.
A division bench consisting of Acting Chief Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Satyen Vaidya has summoned a detailed report from the state government, voicing concerns about the regulatory oversight in the state’s pharmaceutical industry.
Seeking answers on quality testing
During a hearing, the high court questioned the basis on which certification is provided by private laboratories responsible for analysing drug samples. Appearing in person, the Deputy Drug Controller defended the situation by suggesting that environmental factors like humidity, temperature, packaging and transportation conditions could compromise the integrity of some medicines.
However, the high court expressed dissatisfaction, urging the official to clarify how often testing is conducted before medicines reach the public.
Inadequate inspections raise concerns
The Deputy Drug Controller informed the court that joint inspections with the Central government occurred only once a year, with the last testing completed three months ago. The petitioner’s advocate argued that this frequency falls short of industry standards, which require monthly testing to ensure consumer safety.
Advocate General Anup Ratna presented additional findings, revealing that of the 12 laboratories in the state (10 private and two government), seven had tested as substandard. He assured the high court that cases had been registered and actions were underway against the manufacturers. Deputy Solicitor General also assured the court that he would urge the Centre to advocate for stricter regulatory measures and harsher penalties for violators.
