Over 2 lakh narcotic pills sold without records in 18 months

A joint operation in Chamba district has exposed the illegal sale of approximately 2 lakh addictive and narcotic pills without proper documentation over the past 18 months. The operation involved drug inspectors from Chamba and nearby districts, the CID’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) and the district police.

Surprise inspections were conducted at more than 15 private medical stores and three pharmacy outlets within government hospital premises over the past week. The raids uncovered significant discrepancies in the purchase and sale records of Schedule H1 and narcotic drugs. A large quantity of unrecorded drugs was seized during the operation.

Officials confiscated sales bills, purchase records, and narcotics-related registers for further scrutiny. At a pharmacy outlet in Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Government Medical College, Chamba, investigators discovered mismatched records and suspiciously rewritten prescriptions, which are now under investigation.

Ten medical store operators have been served notices to present their complete records. Failure to comply will result in legal action. Findings from the investigation will be forwarded to the CID headquarters and the State Drug Controller for further action.

The local police have intensified surveillance at checkpoints and entry points in Chamba district to monitor vehicles suspected of transporting drugs. The police are also collaborating with drug control authorities to share intelligence and strengthen preventive measures.

Assistant Drug Controller, Dharamshala, Nishant Sarin, said this was the first joint raid of its kind in the region, involving multiple departments working together to combat drug misuse. He confirmed that purchase and sales bills, schedule registers, and other records have been seized and are under scrutiny.

Chamba Chief Medical Officer, Dr Bipen Thakur, emphasised the importance of maintaining detailed records for the sale of addictive pills. He called the sale of 2 lakh unrecorded pills a grave violation of rules, underscoring the urgent need for stricter monitoring and compliance.

This operation highlights the growing threat of unregulated drug sales and the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing it.