SRINAGAR: As part of the ongoing UT-wide Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan, Police conducted a comprehensive checking drive of chemist shops and druggist establishments across the district Kulgam, Sopore and Ganderbal to ensure strict compliance with government regulations and to prevent misuse of pharmaceutical drugs.
In Kulgam, during the checking drive, joint teams inspected stock registers sale and purchase records, valid licenses and other mandatory documents at various chemist shops and druggist establishments. The objective was to detect any irregularities and curb the illegal sale or misuse of medicines, particularly controlled and prescription drugs, which can contribute to substance abuse among youth. Special focus was also laid on areas in and around educational institutions where checking was intensified to prevent any unlawful sale of medicines to students and young individuals.
In Sopore, during the drive, teams carried out inspections across various locations, focusing on verification of licenses, storage conditions and sale practices of medical establishments. Special emphasis was laid on maintaining proper records of scheduled drugs and ensuring installation of CCTV cameras at chemist outlets. In parallel, Police in Sopore also conducted awareness programmes in various educational institutions across the district, sensitising students about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of responsible behaviour.
Police in Ganderbal conducted a comprehensive inspection drive of Chemist & Medical Shops across the district.
On the directions of Senior Officers, extensive drive was carried out wherein multiple teams were constituted to ensure thorough checking and strict enforcement of norms governing the sale of pharmaceutical drugs. During the inspections, records pertaining to the sale and purchase of scheduled drugs were meticulously verified, and shopkeepers were sensitized regarding the legal provisions and consequences of unauthorized sale of prescription medicines.
Particular emphasis was laid on ensuring that habit-forming drugs are not sold without valid prescriptions and that proper documentation is maintained as per the guidelines. Medical Shop owners were strictly warned against any violation, and advised to adhere to ethical practices in dispensing medicines.
Police reiterated that such drives will continue to ensure accountability, promote lawful practices, and safeguard public health and safety. Shopkeepers were advised to maintain proper documentation, strictly adhere to prescribed norms, and extend full cooperation during inspections.