133 Jan Aushadi Kendras served show-cause notices after raids

BENGALURU: The state government seems to be targeting Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras which are set up under the central government’s scheme. Show-cause notices have been issued to 133 Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras by the state’s Drug Control Department seeking explanation as to why they were selling branded drugs.

Over the last two days, raids were conducted on 172 Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras by the Drug Control Department alleging that branded medicines were being sold. Out of 172, branded medicines were being sold at 133 Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras.

The state Drug Control Department is conducting raids stating that branded medicines should not be sold. There are more than 1,200 Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the state. Now, 177 Jan Aushadhi Kendras have been inspected and the remaining Jan Aushadhi Kendras will be inspected in the coming days.

It was revealed that only 21 Jan Aushadhi Kendras are following the rules. The Jan Aushadhi owners have to reply to the show-cause notice. If they do not reply why they are selling branded medicines, the state Drug Control Department is planning to take legal action.