Assam Pharmacists’ Union demands strict action against illegal pharmacies, alleging corruption and negligence, calling for urgent measures to protect public health.
Assam Pharmacists’ Union Slams Illegal Pharmacies in Bold Crackdown Call
The Assam Pharmacists’ Union has raised serious concerns over the proliferation of illegal pharmacies across the state, alleging deep-rooted corruption and negligence in enforcement. In a strongly worded statement, the Union called for immediate government action to safeguard public health and restore trust in the pharmaceutical sector.
Assam Pharmacists’ Union Rings Alarm Bells
At a press conference held in Guwahati, leaders of the Assam Pharmacists’ Union accused certain officials and business owners of colluding to operate unlicensed pharmacies. They claimed these illegal outlets not only violate the law but also endanger lives by selling substandard, expired, or counterfeit medicines.
“We cannot stand by while public health is compromised,” said Union President Pranab Choudhury. “The government must shut down these illegal pharmacies immediately, prosecute those responsible, and hold corrupt officials accountable.”
Illegal Pharmacies: A Growing Menace
According to the Union, hundreds of pharmacies across Assam operate without valid licenses or registered pharmacists. This, they argue, leads to serious risks:
- Dispensing incorrect medications without prescriptions.
- Selling expired or fake drugs.
- Bypassing quality checks mandated by the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.
The Assam Pharmacists’ Union stressed that unregulated medicine sales undermine healthcare standards, particularly in rural areas where people rely heavily on local pharmacies for treatment advice.
Corruption Allegations
One of the most explosive claims made by the Assam Pharmacists’ Union is that corruption within regulatory bodies allows these illegal operations to flourish. They allege that some officials accept bribes in exchange for turning a blind eye to violations.
Union spokesperson Juri Das remarked, “It’s an open secret that some inspectors and officers are complicit. Without political and administrative will, this racket will continue to grow.”
Impact on Public Health
Health experts warn that the sale of counterfeit and unprescribed medicines can cause dangerous side effects, antibiotic resistance, and even fatalities.
The Assam Pharmacists’ Union highlighted recent cases where patients suffered severe reactions after consuming drugs purchased from unlicensed shops. In some instances, antibiotics were dispensed without proper dosage guidance, leading to treatment failures.
Voices from the Ground
Several licensed pharmacists from different districts attended the meeting and shared their frustration.
“While we pay taxes, maintain licenses, and follow safety protocols, illegal pharmacies operate freely and undercut us by selling cheap, substandard drugs,” said Manoj Kalita, a registered pharmacist from Nagaon. “This is not only unfair to us but extremely dangerous for the public.”
Call for Stronger Enforcement
The Assam Pharmacists’ Union has submitted a memorandum to the state health department with specific demands:
- Immediate closure of illegal pharmacies.
- Criminal action against owners and complicit officials.
- Regular inspection drives in both urban and rural areas.
- Public awareness campaigns about the risks of buying from unlicensed shops.
They have also proposed a statewide pharmacy verification app so citizens can easily check whether a pharmacy is legally registered.
Government Response
Health department sources confirmed that they have received the Union’s complaint and will investigate the allegations. A senior official, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted that illegal pharmacies are a known problem but cited resource constraints as a challenge.
“We are committed to enforcing the law,” the official said. “If corruption is involved, those responsible will be punished.”
Why This Matters Now
The Assam Pharmacists’ Union pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the dangers of unchecked drug sales, with reports of inflated prices and fake medicines circulating in the market.
“Illegal pharmacies are like ticking time bombs,” said Union Treasurer Sandeep Nath. “If we don’t act now, the consequences will be catastrophic.”
Economic Implications
Apart from health risks, illegal pharmacies also cause economic harm. Legitimate businesses lose customers, tax revenues decline, and the pharmaceutical supply chain suffers reputational damage.
The Assam Pharmacists’ Union estimates that the state loses several crores annually in unpaid taxes from these unlawful outlets.
Possible Solutions
Experts suggest a multi-pronged approach:
- Digitization of pharmacy records to monitor stock movement.
- Stringent penalties for violations.
- Collaboration with police for surprise raids.
- Public reporting mechanisms to flag illegal shops.
Public Reaction
On social media, many citizens expressed support for the Assam Pharmacists’ Union, with hashtags like #CleanPharmacyAssam trending locally. Some called for whistleblower protection for insiders willing to expose corruption.
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